Meritocracy is a system or philosophy in which individuals are rewarded, promoted, and given opportunities based on their talents, abilities, and achievements rather than factors such as social class, wealth, or personal connections. The basic idea of meritocracy is that people should advance in society or within an organization based on merit (demonstrated skills, intelligence, and performance) rather than any other criteria.

• Parks, G. S., & Russell, R. J. (2012). Merit and justice: The struggle for equity in higher education and the workplace. The Journal of Law and Education, 41(4), 679–688.