Here's why:
* Deviance is relative: What is considered deviant in one culture or time period may not be in another. For example, wearing a bikini on the beach is considered normal in many Western cultures, but might be seen as deviant in some other parts of the world.
* Social norms change: What is considered deviant can change over time. For example, smoking cigarettes was once considered normal, but is now widely seen as deviant in many societies.
* Context matters: Deviance is often judged based on the specific situation or context. For example, wearing a clown costume to a birthday party is acceptable, but wearing it to a funeral would be considered highly deviant.
* Power and social control: Definitions of deviance are often influenced by those in power. Those with more power can define what is considered deviant and impose sanctions on those who violate those norms.
Examples:
* Homosexuality: Throughout history, homosexuality has been considered deviant in many societies, but this perception has changed significantly in recent decades, particularly in Western countries.
* Polygamy: In some cultures, polygamy is accepted, while in others it is illegal.
* Tattoos and piercings: These were once considered deviant in many societies, but are now becoming more mainstream.
Therefore, it's crucial to understand that deviance is a social construct that varies significantly based on the specific historical, cultural, and situational context.