What term describes a society in which advancement is based solely on individual abilities and achievements?

The term that describes a society in which advancement is based solely on individual abilities and achievements is meritocracy. In a meritocratic system, individuals are rewarded based on their competencies, skills, and efforts rather than their social status, connections, or other extrinsic factors. This concept emphasizes equal opportunity, where success or progression in social or occupational spheres arises from personal merit. The focus is on how well individuals can perform in a competitive environment, allowing those with superior abilities to rise to the top, fostering an outcome where achievement is directly linked to one's own input and talent.

The other options relate to social structures and factors influencing societal dynamics but do not precisely capture the idea of advancement strictly through individual abilities. Social mobility refers to the ability to move up or down the social ladder, which may or may not be based solely on merit. Social hierarchy denotes the ranking of individuals or groups within a society, often based on their status rather than merit. Cultural capital refers to non-financial social assets, like education or intellect, that promote social mobility, highlighting the influence of background and upbringing rather than just individual achievements.