Legal culture in the context of the legitimation of state power

Abstract

The article explores the theoretical aspects of legal culture as the main factor in the legitimation of state power. This concept includes not only the legal consciousness of citizens, but also their attitude to law as a legal phenomenon, understanding the importance of choosing state power bodies. Accordingly, the level of legal culture determines the degree of legitimation of state power bodies and their assessment by society. Legal culture also influences the formation of various legal institutions, the organization of law enforcement and judicial bodies, since the effectiveness of its implementation and application depends on how society perceives the law. The study substantiates that the legitimacy of power is not limited only to formal legality (legality), but directly depends on its internal perception and recognition by society. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of modern challenges that hinder the establishment of a legal state and the development of democratic values due to the problem of low legal culture. The problems of identifying the concepts of «legitimacy» and «legality» are identified, which leads to a violation of the basic principles of law and a violation of human rights, since the state makes decisions with anti-democratic content. It is also substantiated that the concept of «legitimacy» has several types, which proves its ambiguous meaning and literal understanding. The problem of «illusory legitimacy» is described, where the state appears democratic on the outside, but is authoritarian or totalitarian on the inside. Promising directions for improving mechanisms of interaction between the state and society aimed at increasing the level of legitimacy of state authorities are identified. The article argues for the feasibility of implementing systemic measures aimed at increasing the legal awareness of Ukrainians. Among the key tools are highlighted legal education programs, large-scale information campaigns and expanding the population’s access to quality legal services. The authors argue that a high legal culture is a driving force of democratization. It unites people around the idea of the rule of law and stimulates the evolution of the legal sphere. The article is of practical importance for those involved in the development of legal culture in Ukraine and its impact on the legitimacy of state authorities.