Theories are presented about the time of origin, dynamics and formation mechanism of active volcanoes in the Kuril-Kamchatka zone during the Late Pleistocene-Holocene period. The study was based on more than 500 radiocarbon dates and the results of geological, geomorphological, tephrochronological and isotopic geochronological research. It is noted that there are different rhythms in the activity of the volcanoes and in the mechanisms and rates of formation of the volcanic structures. Periods of synchronous activity of the volcanoes on Kamchatka and the Kuril islands, and apparently, in other volcanic areas are identified, suggesting their global nature. The concept of "active volcano' is discussed. -P.Cooke