The article analyzes current state of academic debate over the phenomenon of Soviet society. The author proposes to abandon emotional and politically-oriented assessments and argues for a balanced, impartial study of Soviet society as social and cultural phenomenon. Main methods of studies are proposed to consist of cognitive theory of history and generational approach. From these definitions, author believes that 1930s became the “cradle” of the Soviet man. Genesis of the phenomenon of Soviet man is associated with the impact of the state on the younger generation on the eve of World War II.