The textbook examines the subject and basic concepts of the modern philosophy of science, as well as the socio-philosophical problems of science, revealing its place in the culture of modern civilization. The problems of the epistemology of science are covered: the structure of empirical and theoretical knowledge, as well as the problems of the growth and development of scientific knowledge, are characterized. Problems of the methodology of science are discussed and the main methods of modern science are analyzed. Topical philosophical problems of social work are considered. Corresponds to the Federal State Educational Standard of Higher Professional Education of the Third Generation. For masters studying in humanitarian areas and specialties, graduate students, teachers, scientists.