Final answer:
Discussing departures from normality involves assessing what is considered abnormal against the backdrop of culturally and temporally specific norms, which can change over time and differ across cultures. Notions of deviance are relative and context-specific, with societal perceptions influencing what constitutes abnormal behavior. In science, extraordinary claims that challenge the norm require substantial evidence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the concept of normality in social contexts, which relates to the behaviors, events, or conditions that are considered usual or typical within a society. Discussing departures from normality involves assessing what is considered abnormal against the backdrop of culturally and temporally specific norms. This is a complex issue as notions of normality can change over time and differ across cultures.
For instance, the references to planetary resource impact and human scale suggest that our present age may represent an extraordinary time, potentially justifying the label of abnormal. Similarly, technological feats such as moon landings or supersonic flights are exceptions not indicative of a new normal. In terms of human behavior and societal expectations, an act might be perceived as deviant in one context but normal in another, illustrating the relativity of deviance.
Ultimately, measuring deviations and understanding their implications require careful consideration of the context. In science, extraordinary claims challenge established norms and, therefore, demand extraordinary evidence. Similarly, in sociology, the notion of what constitutes deviance is not absolute and requires context-specific analysis.