This comprehensive guide explores the impact of general and political culture on the development of various societies and civilizations, as well as their politics and political behavior. It presents an interdisciplinary and innovative study. The textbook addresses a range of issues, including the theory and methodology of cultural studies and their comparative analysis; the unique influence of culture on the political development of societies in the West, Russia, the East, and Africa; and the interaction of cultures and civilizations in the context of global human development. The work employs interdisciplinary, comparative, and cross-cultural approaches extensively. It is designed for students, graduate students, educators, politicians, diplomats, managers, cultural workers, and civil servants.