The theory of social pathology originated in Germany in early 20th century, owing to Alfred Grotjahn, the founder of scientific school of social hygiene. Both German and Russian social hygienists ran into problem of definition of concept “social pathology” and its scientific methods and theory. The ideas of Grotjahn on social pathology were largely introduced in the Imperial Russia due to energetic activities of L. B. Granovsky, member of the Pirogov Society. In the 1920s, the Soviet social hygienists explored social pathology from both practical and theoretical points of view. The Soviet academic literature developed theoretical approach to social pathology based on work of Benno Hayes, follower of Grotjahn. The theory of Chajes in sphere of social pathology differed from original theory of Grotjahn. In Russia, the German concept of social pathology was adapted under the influence of the Soviet ideology and the Marxist understanding of history. In the University clinic, on the basis of ideas of Grotjahn, practical approach was realized that received support from N. A. Semashko, the People's Commissar of Health Care. Within the framework of this approach attempts were made to examine relationship between etiology of diseases and impact of environment.

social hygiene, social pathology, common diseases, theory, practice.