The textbook was prepared by scientists from the Institute of State and Law of the Russian Academy of Sciences, well-known specialists in this discipline. It covers the world history of political and legal thought from its origins to the present, setting out all the main political and legal teachings of the Ancient World, the Middle Ages, New and Contemporary times. Much space is devoted to the formation and development of political and legal thought in Russia. In this publication, the material has been significantly revised, updated and supplemented. For students, graduate students, teachers of law, political science, history, philosophy and other humanitarian universities and faculties, as well as a wide range of readers, those interested in political and legal issues.