The dissertation is devoted to the research of the methodological potential of the principle of coevolution in ecological cognition and ecologically oriented practice. Based on philosophical and ecological concepts which reveal the meaning of the concept of coevolution, the forms of explication of the principle of coevolution are identified, which appear as an ontological principle in the general scientific picture of the world, as an epistemological principle of interpretation, explanation, and understanding of natural, social and cultural phenomena, human activity and social development. The functions of the principle of coevolution in science (epistemological, heuristic, methodological, integrational, informational, worldview) and practice (regulatory, environmental, educational, prognostic) are associated with the actualization of its methodological potential in particular for the integration of natural, humanitarian (ethical) knowledge and eco-social practice (solving global problems of mankind and forming a "sustainable future"). The theoretical bases of formation of the modern ecological world outlook, the maintenance of concepts of the noosphere, and "sustainable development" are specified. The significance of the methodology of synergetics in the process of philosophical and scientific cognition of socio-natural coevolution is revealed, the conformity of the coevolutionary approach to the requirements (criteria) of post-classical rationality is clarified.
The results of the dissertation can be useful for further research of the environmental problem, interdisciplinary knowledge, and its philosophical interpretations, namely: opportunities of humanistic orientation and responsible attitude to the process of coevolution of society and nature during the modern period of establishment of the noosphere, finding clear guidelines for the formation of the scenario for civilization development. The conclusions of the study can be used in the educational process to teach courses in environmental education, designed to shape environmental thinking and worldview.
