How does social inequality influence perceptions of deviant behavior?

Social inequality affects how people see deviant behavior because it shapes our beliefs about what is normal and acceptable. When certain groups, often those with less power or lower income, engage in behaviors that society labels as deviant, they may be judged more harshly than those from privileged backgrounds. For example, if a wealthy person cheats on their taxes, they might be seen as clever or resourceful, while a poorer person caught stealing food may be viewed as a criminal. This difference in perception often stems from stereotypes and biases related to social class, race, or other factors. Ultimately, social inequality can lead to unfair treatment and reinforce negative views of certain groups, making it harder for them to be seen as anything other than deviant.