How does social inequality shape the perception of deviance among different social classes?

Social inequality affects how different social classes view deviance because people in higher classes often define what is considered "normal" or "acceptable" behavior. For example, a wealthy person might commit fraud and be seen as clever, while a poorer person stealing food could be labeled as a criminal. This difference occurs because those in power create rules that protect their interests, and they may overlook or excuse their own harmful actions. As a result, people from lower classes face harsher judgments and consequences for behaviors that are sometimes driven by their circumstances. Overall, social inequality creates a biased lens through which deviance is judged, reinforcing the divide between classes.