This work offers, in the first place, a definition of the notion of modernity, then, a reconstruction of historical origins of that wide and long-lasting ideal/spiritual and practical project, and the main theoretical views of the attributes and conditions of its contemporary existence. The analysis of the character of the main socio-historical currents in Serbia during the 20th century - based upon the above mentioned logical theoretical, methodological and historical considerations - reveals the reasons why the project of modernity has never become a basis or, at least a relevant orientation factor for human action/behaviour in the milieu.