This textbook outlines the interdisciplinary nature of media research and brings together the theoretical and historical heritage associated with the study of communications. The authors show the importance of means of communication, various media carriers and aesthetic forms of media content in the development of social relations and represent an extensive theoretical palette of approaches to the study of the role of media in social systems. The textbook consists of two large parts. The first is devoted to historical aspects of the development of media and societies; the second is a review of media theories that are combined according to the so-called theoretical groups. Each part is equipped with a list of test questions and tasks for testing knowledge. The textbook is intended for students of higher educational institutions studying in the areas of "media communication," "journalism," "advertising and public relations." In addition, it can be recommended for familiarization with students in other areas of social sciences and humanities (sociology, political sciences, philosophy, etc.).