nKaren Fields has given us a splendid new translation of the greatest work of sociology ever written, one we will not be embarrassed to assign to our students. In addition she has written a brilliant and profound introduction. The publication of this translation is an occasion for general celebration, for a veritable collective effervescence. n -- Robert N. Bellah Co-author of Habits of the Heart, and editor of Emile Durkheim on Morality and Society n This superb new translation finally allows non-French speaking American readers fully to appreciate Durkheims genius. It is a labor of love for which all scholars must be grateful. n --Lewis A. Cose