Meritocracy is a social system in which individuals are rewarded and advanced based on their abilities, talents, and achievements rather than their background or social status. In a meritocratic society, success is determined by hard work, education, and performance, allowing people to rise through the ranks based on their merits.
This concept is often associated with education and employment, where opportunities are provided to those who demonstrate skill and dedication. Critics argue that true meritocracy can be difficult to achieve due to existing inequalities, which may hinder equal access to resources and opportunities for all individuals.