The transformations of the social structure in the period of system changes are accompanied by a significant polarisation of the society. On the one hand, a growing sphere pf poverty eliminates from participation in culture a significant part of the society, and, on the other hand, an ever growing layer of affluent and rich people face other barriers limiting their participation in culture. Having in mind the role of culture in the contemporary world, there appears a dilemma whether and to what an extent the occurring economic stratification affects the stratification in the sphere of values and life goals, and whether the participation in culture constitutes one of the indicators of achievement of a higher social position.