Final answer:
The idea that social position reflects only personal talent and effort is often found in meritocratic societies, particulary in the cultural values of the United States, which promotes the notion of the 'American Dream.' Yet, this overlooks significant factors like institutional barriers and the role of wealth and connections in determining social mobility.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ideological belief that social position is solely the result of personal talent and effort is most widely found in societies that emphasize a meritocratic view of success and opportunity. In the context of the United States, this belief is deeply embedded in the cultural values that highlight individualism and the notion of the "American Dream." These ideals suggest that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve success if they work hard enough. However, this perspective overlooks the complexities of social stratification and the influence of institutional barriers such as racism, classism, and unequal access to resources. While the United States presents itself as a meritocracy, where hard work and talent are supposed to lead to upward social mobility, the reality is that other factors like wealth, connections, and educational opportunities often play a significant role in determining one's social standing.