What is the primary principle of meritocracy in relation to social mobility?

The primary principle of meritocracy is that people should succeed based on their abilities and efforts rather than their background or social status. This means that if someone works hard and demonstrates talent, they should have the opportunity to move up in society, regardless of where they started. For example, a student from a low-income family who studies diligently and gets good grades can earn a scholarship to a prestigious university, allowing them to improve their future. In a true meritocracy, everyone has an equal chance to achieve their goals, which encourages hard work and innovation. However, it's important to recognize that not everyone starts with the same resources, which can affect true social mobility.