Phenomenon of the Cultural Policy Infl uence on the Urban Environment Formation in Modern Humanitarian Studies

Abstract

In the course of globalization processes the theory and practice of socio-economic relations in modern world shows that cities will play a key role in the development of state and interstate associations in present and near future. In the current situation the process of globalization not only makes the borders between countries and cultures permeable, but also increases the need to fix local identity connecting people with a place of their life. As a result, the desire of municipal authorities and urban communities to form an attractive, safe and innovative city environment primarily by means and mechanisms of cultural policy is absolutely justified. The article states that the cities, being models created by man, involve introduction of such forms of development of their own environment which would improve public relations, make urban life more comfortable and better. At that urban environment is not so much physical but symbolic, that is primarily due to various mechanisms of human self-realization and cultural identity formation. The author emphasizes that cultural policy plays a decisive role in these processes as these are culture and cultural industries that make it possible to express values, form the citizens’ cultural identity and contribute to their creative and economic wealth. Moreover, by means of cultural diplomacy the city may significantly expand the area of influence, while receiving not only cultural but also politicaleconomic dividends.