The concept of elementary soil-forming processes as formulated by I.P. Gerasimov has been applied to the analysis of degradation of chernozems. Overall, thirteen types of degradation are distinguished, and their effects on the biospheric functions of these soils are specified. Some degradation processes (e.g., degradation of the humus state, agrochemical and agrophysical properties, phytotoxic degradation, etc.) do not disturb the general morphology of chernozemic profiles and can be minimized. In contrast, water and wind erosion, as well as irrigation of chernozems with low-quality water, lead to considerable and irreversible changes in the morphology of their profiles. The principles and means to control the anthropogenic degradation of chernozems are discussed.