In a meritocratic system, the belief that anyone can achieve success through hard work often overlooks the impact of _______ on social mobility.

In a meritocratic system, the idea is that if you work hard, you can succeed regardless of your background. However, this belief often overlooks the impact of class inequality on social mobility. For example, a student from a wealthy family might have access to better schools, tutors, and connections that can help them succeed. In contrast, a student from a low-income family may work just as hard but face more obstacles, such as inadequate schooling or financial stress. This shows that while hard work is important, the starting point in life can greatly influence one's chances of success.