The Opinions Bret Stephens: The Logic Behind Trump’s Cabinet Picks
Nov 21, 2024
Bret Stephens, an Opinion columnist for The New York Times known for his insights on foreign policy and politics, discusses the unconventional cabinet selections made by President-elect Donald Trump. He delves into the concept of 'defining deviancy down' in politics, examining how societal norms have shifted. Stephens highlights the differing moral standards across political parties, particularly in light of recent misconduct allegations, and calls for a return to higher ethical standards in governance amidst a culture where power often overshadows truth.
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Defining Deviancy Down
- Daniel Patrick Moynihan's theory of defining deviancy down suggests that societies normalize unacceptable behavior as it increases.
- This happens by shifting perspectives and lowering standards, making once-outrageous actions commonplace.
St. Valentine's Day Massacre
- The St. Valentine's Day Massacre, where gangsters killed gangsters, shocked the nation in 1929.
- Decades later, similar violence barely made headlines, illustrating Moynihan's point about normalizing deviancy.
Past Political Scandals
- In the past, Reagan's divorce, Ginsburg's pot use, and Baird and Wood's nanny issues were political liabilities.
- These examples demonstrate how standards in politics have shifted dramatically over time.
