The belief that no matter what a person's background is, he or she can still become successful through effort is often referred to as the belief in meritocracy. Meritocracy is the idea that individuals should be rewarded and achieve success based on their merits, abilities, and hard work, rather than factors such as social status, wealth, or privilege.
This belief emphasizes the importance of individual effort, determination, and skill in determining one's success in life. It suggests that regardless of the circumstances or disadvantages a person may face, they have the potential to overcome these obstacles and achieve their goals through hard work, perseverance, and talent.
The concept of meritocracy is found in various cultural, social, and economic systems around the world. It is often seen as a fundamental principle in societies that value fairness, equality of opportunity, and the ability for individuals to better their lives through their own actions.
However, it's important to note that the belief in meritocracy does not always reflect the reality of social, economic, and systemic barriers that can impact a person's opportunities and outcomes. Factors such as socioeconomic status, discrimination, access to resources, and various systemic inequalities can significantly influence an individual's chances of success, despite their efforts.