How does socio-economic status influence an individual's chances of achieving upward social mobility in a meritocratic society?

Socio-economic status plays a significant role in determining how likely someone is to achieve upward social mobility in a meritocratic society, where success is supposed to come from individual effort and talent. People from higher socio-economic backgrounds often have better access to quality education, healthcare, and networking opportunities, which can help them succeed more easily. For example, a child from a wealthy family might attend a prestigious school and receive private tutoring, while a child from a lower-income family may struggle to get the same educational support. This difference in resources can create a gap in skills and opportunities, making it harder for those from lower socio-economic backgrounds to climb the social ladder. Ultimately, while meritocracy suggests that hard work leads to success, socio-economic status can heavily influence the starting point and available resources for individuals.