Durkheim's premise is to argue for the division of labor, a function that he assigns to modern societies. In his view, society may only be successful when everyone feels a sense of unified interdependence. If any one party feels autonomous from the rest of the society, they will secede or at least cause faction. In response, Durkheim argues for the division or diversity of labor which will cause everyone to rely upon all the other roles for their success as well. No one individual will be accomplishing everything necessary for self-sustenance, so they will rely upon the function of society. This method promotes harmony, according to Durkheim's theory.
Durkheim explores the changing division of labor in societies throughout the ages. He theorizes both about the causes of these changes and their consequences. As he observes, societies with a small division of labor -- similar occupations -- engaged in a sort of fake solidarity, nothing genuine. They may understand that cooperation is a fundamental tenant of a healthy society, but this rationality is their sole motivation for cooperation. They do not cooperate out of a desire to do so. In contrast, societies with a high division of labor -- where everyone is doing something different -- benefit from a seemingly genuine sense of solidarity. They cooperate willingly and happily.
