The article establishes the methodological basis for research into the model of civil society. Point of departure for the research is exemplifi ed by the technosocial formula of society, which defi nes the social relationship between the end and means as the basis of human interaction within the community. The role of government vis-a-vis civil society is analyzed. The criterion for existence of civil society is defi ned as independence of people from each other and their equality before the law. The conclusion is that the concept of civil society serves as an abstract theoretical model, which fulfi lls an ideological function.