Final answer:
The emphasis on individualism often leads to a high degree of social stratification, as seen in individualist cultures where personal achievement and competition are highly valued, leading to a meritocratic job market and economic inequality. The correct answer is option A) a high degree of social stratification.
Step-by-step explanation:
The emphasis on individualism in a society or system of government typically leads to a higher degree of social stratification, rather than a low degree of competition between individuals or cooperation amongst them. In an individualist culture, the importance placed on personal achievement, independence, and competition tends to foster environments where people strive for personal success and differentiation. In such contexts, class stratification is more pronounced, and the job market functions as a meritocracy, where social mobility is ostensibly based on individual achievement and effort. This often results in a society where there is a wide gap between the wealthy and the poor, as seen in closed systems of social stratification like in caste systems, versus more open systems where movement between socio-economic classes is more feasible.
As a result, the correct answer to the multiple-choice question regarding the outcome of emphasizing individualism is A) a high degree of social stratification. In individualist societies, such as the United States, there is a strong belief in equality of opportunity and economic freedom, where individuals can make their own choices regarding employment and consumption. However, this belief system also cultivates competitive markets where companies and individuals vie for success, leading to economic inequality and pronounced social stratification. Thus, individualism can be associated with reduced cooperation between individuals as they may prioritize personal gain.