The word "meritocratic" is spelled /mɛrɪtəkrætɪk/. The first syllable "merit" is pronounced as /ˈmɛrɪt/, with emphasis on the first vowel "e". The second syllable "o" is pronounced as /ə/, similar to the schwa sound. The third syllable "cra" is pronounced as /kræ/ with emphasis on the "a" sound. The suffix "-tic" is pronounced as /tɪk/. This word refers to a system where people are selected based on their abilities and achievements rather than their social status or connections.
Meritocratic (adjective): Pertaining to a system or society where social, economic, or political advancement is determined by an individual's abilities, talents, or achievements.
In a meritocratic system, the distribution of rewards, privileges, and opportunities is based on the concept of merit, where individuals are rewarded according to their proficiency, competence, or aptitude rather than factors such as class, wealth, or social status. This emphasis on valuing inherent abilities and personal achievements ensures that individuals are accorded opportunities and positions in society based on their merit alone.
The notion of "meritocratic" is rooted in the belief that each individual should have equal access to opportunities, and success should be determined by one's abilities rather than their circumstances at birth. Meritocracy contends that individuals are responsible for their own achievements and that those who excel in a particular field or demonstrate exceptional skills should be rightfully acknowledged, rewarded, and entrusted with positions of authority or influence.
However, the degree of meritocracy achieved in a given society may vary, as other factors such as prejudice, discrimination, or nepotism can undermine true merit-based progress. Critics argue that meritocracies can be inherently unfair, as criteria for merit may be arbitrary or biased, lacking consideration for inherent biases or unequal starting points.
Overall, the concept of meritocracy stands as an ideal of equitable distribution of resources and opportunities based on individual capabilities, aiming to promote social mobility and reward personal achievement.
The word "meritocratic" is derived from the noun "meritocracy". Meritocracy itself is a combination of two words - "merit" and "cracy".
The term "merit" originates from the Latin word "meritum", which means "to earn" or "that which is earned". It relates to deservingness or worthiness based on one's qualities, abilities, or achievements.
The suffix "-cracy" is derived from the Greek word "kratos", meaning "rule" or "power". It signifies a system or form of government or governance based on a particular principle or criteria.
Thus, the word "meritocratic" was formed by combining "merit" and "-cracy" to create a term describing a system or society governed by or based on merit or meritocracy, where positions, opportunities, and rewards are awarded based on individual abilities and achievements.