The article reveals the theoretical and methodological foundations of the work of B. N. Chicherin, the most prominent thinker of Russia of the XIX century. The ways and forms of the state and constitutional structure of Russian society, set forth in the works of the scientist, are analyzed. The relationship between the author’s liberal conservatism and the justification for need to create a constitutional monarchy as the best form of state structure is considered. The most acute problems of the state and democracy, power and law, evolutionary and revolutionary ways of development of Russia are analyzed. The place and role of the bureaucracy and aristocracy in the process of transition to a constitutional monarchy, the problem of moral evil in this process.