What is meant by 'social mobility'?

Social mobility refers to the ability of individuals or groups to move between different social strata in a society. This movement can occur in various forms, such as upward mobility, where individuals attain higher social status, or downward mobility, where they fall to a lower status. The concept emphasizes the potential for change in an individual’s position within a social hierarchy, often influenced by factors like education, employment opportunities, and social networks.

The selected answer captures the essence of this sociological concept effectively by focusing on the capability of individuals to alter their social status, highlighting the dynamic nature of societies where personal achievements or economic changes can lead to shifts in one’s social standing. Understanding social mobility helps to analyze the stratification system in a society and the factors that facilitate or hinder movement between classes or social groups.