Abstract

Approaches to the understanding of modern society is disclosed, attention is focused on the D.Bell’s theory of post­industrial society, Castell’s network society and P.Drucker’s knowledge societies. It is emphasized that their fundamental difference lies in the change of accents, which determine the development of society. The author proves the opinion that the current level of social development provides another quality of education, which would be able to provide the preparation of a person to life in a society based on knowledge. Fundamental characterization of «knowledge society» is given, which includes broader social, ethical and political dimensions. In the «knowledge society» it is important to have not only the capabilities of the Internet and multimedia tools, and knowledge tools such as the press, radio, television, and the education system. It is obvious that the processes that dictate the need to teach people to think and to live in accordance with the principles of sustainable development, including issues of ethics and responsibility. Of no less importance in the «knowledge society» must be paid to the development of spiritual and moral qualities. Education is one of the leading factors in the successful development of the society; the level of development of education depends on the level of development of personality in the «knowledge society». It is education that creates conditions for self­fulfillment, self­improvement, and forms willingness to independently solve the problems of freedom of choice, cooperation and dialogue with other people. The opinion is proved that modern society confronts man with the need to improve oneself constantly to feel confident in a rapidly changing world. Therefore, education becomes one of the means to achieve any meaningful goals that enables to use education as a means of expanding and implementing potential in life.