In 1993, Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan noted that people struggle to deal with behavior that strays from commonly accepted norms. His insight revealed that when societal standards are continually violated, there is a tendency for communities to adjust their perceptions of deviance, ultimately normalizing what was once considered abnormal. This phenomenon raises questions about the limits of tolerance within a society and can lead to a gradual erosion of established norms.

The concept of "defining deviancy down" is significant as it highlights how societal values can shift over time. As behaviors that were previously unacceptable become commonplace, the overall moral framework of a society may weaken. Steven Levitsky's book, "How Democracies Die," delves into this theme, exploring how such shifts can threaten democratic principles and institutions, reshaping the landscape of societal interactions and governance.