Final answer:
The ideology that social inequality is justified by personal talent and effort reflects a belief in meritocracy but does not account for systemic factors that impact economic inequality and social mobility.
Step-by-step explanation:
The belief that social inequality is fair because social position reflects personal talent and effort aligns with the ideology of meritocracy. In a meritocratic society, social mobility is determined by individual abilities and hard work rather than by predetermined factors such as birth or social status. While this idea of equality of opportunity is valued in American society, it is important to recognize that economic inequality is not always the result of a lack of talent or effort. Circumstances into which a child is born can significantly influence one's access to opportunities, regardless of their innate abilities or the effort they apply. Therefore, the outcomes one experiences may not always be indicative of their effort or talent, due to systemic factors such as education quality, family support, and access to resources.
There are various strategies discussed in addressing economic inequality, such as redistribution through the federal income tax and government antipoverty programs. Yet, these measures also raise questions about the extent of redistribution that should occur. Stratification systems, such as class or caste systems, and societal ideologies, including meritocracy and Marxism, play significant roles in shaping how resources and opportunities are distributed within a society.