The concept of social memory as a prerequisite for its justification as an object of criminal law protection

Relevance . The adoption by the state of decisive measures to revive and strengthen fundamental spiritual and moral values is the most important vector of activity capable of strengthening the all-Russian civil identity, preserving the sovereignty of the state, and ensuring a strong intergenerational bond of the people. Social memory occupies a significant place in the system of such values. It serves as a tool through which the assimilation of spiritual heritage, cultural and historical experience and, as a result, the identification of society takes place. In recent years, social memory has been in the area of close attention of the researcher. In this regard, the criminal law is no exception, which contains a whole series of criminal law norms that ensure its protection from socially dangerous encroachments. At the same time, it is possible to assess the sufficiency and effectiveness of the relevant prohibitions only after the development of provisions justifying social memory as an object of criminal law protection, which, in turn, necessitates the definition of the concept of this phenomenon. The purpose of the study is to determine the essence of social memory and formulate a scientifically based definition of this concept. Objektives : to identify and systematize scientific approaches to understanding social memory; to identify and disclose the essential features that form the content of the concept of social memory; to formulate a definition of this concept. Methodology . When writing the work, methods of analysis and synthesis, a systematic approach, cultural, sociological, axiological, historical and formal legal methods of cognition were used. Results . In the course of the study, the signs are highlighted and the definition of the concept of social memory is formulated. Conclusion . Social memory is a key factor in preserving the all-Russian civic identity, ensuring the connection of generations and the unity of our people, and affirming the inviolability of Russia in the global space. Such a role is feasible under the condition of proper legal provision of social memory, which dictates the need for its clear justification as an object of criminal law protection. This, in turn, requires understanding the essence of social memory, defining its features and concepts.