The article considers the question of the state influencing the development of Soviet philosophy, using the materials of the 1947 discussion over G.F. Alexandrov’s book “History of West-European Philosophy” as an example. It focuses on the main aspects of the party principle in philosophy as the main line of expression of the state influence. The paper outlines the peculiarities of the practical expression of the party principle, as well as the specific conditions of philosophical activity in the USSR associated with the state influence, which are reflected in the materials of the discussion. The issues of perception in philosophy as an ideological weapon used for governmental purposes, as well as a means for solution of urgent tasks facing the society are reviewed. The article also considers a question of understanding the role of historical and philosophical studies in their relation to the tasks of the state. Using the example of debates on Hegel’s philosophy the author demonstrates the practice of referring to the classics of Marxism-Leninism in defense of contradictory opinions, as well as the possibility of revising earlier adopted attitudes if new instructions come from the state leaders. Furthermore he touches upon the question of the use of state influence for the internal struggle of philosophical groups in the USSR.