Final answer:
Meritocracy allows for the most social mobility as it is based on individual achievements rather than status at birth, unlike the caste system which inherently limits mobility. Efforts have been made in India to shift towards merit-based structures a) to promote equality and opportunity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding the Caste System and Social Mobility
The caste system is a form of social stratification that has been present in Indian society. It is formally dismantled but remains deeply embedded, especially in rural areas.
While it was envisioned as a means of maintaining social order with each caste performing different functions, the reality was that it often prevented social mobility and reinforced inequality.
Today, legal reforms and economic modernization have tried to shift away from the caste-based system towards more merit-based structures at least in some parts of India.
Meritocracy, representing a system where advancement is based on individual abilities and talents, tends to allow for the most social mobility compared to caste, monarchy, or class systems.
In a meritocratic system, individuals have the opportunity to move up in society based on their achievements rather than their birth status.
Contrary to fostering social mobility, caste systems inherently limit it by defining social status at birth, with little chance for individuals to move beyond their assigned social group.
This system has been challenged by both social movements and democratic governance, advocating for equality and opportunities for advancement regardless of one's background.