This collective monograph delves into the fundamental issues of cultural studies—a new, rapidly evolving discipline that lies at the intersection of the humanities and social sciences. This volume presents materials that illuminate the structure and content of the theoretical and methodological framework of contemporary cultural studies. A special section is dedicated to exploring the heuristic potential of aesthetics and art theory within the context of modern cultural research. The book is based on key presentations delivered at the II Russian Cultural Studies Congress with international participation, held in 2008 with the support of the Russian Foundation for Basic Research and in partnership with the Moscow UNESCO Office. These materials have been supplemented, revised, and adapted specifically for this edition. It is an essential read for researchers and university educators.