Another Word For Meritocracy

Meaning

Meritocracy is a system or philosophy where individuals achieve success and advancement based on their own abilities, talent, and efforts, rather than on factors such as wealth, social class, or personal connections. In a meritocratic society, rewards and positions are given to those who demonstrate competence and excellence.

Synonyms

• Aristocracy (in the sense of rule by the able)
• Talentocracy
• Competence-based system
• Performance-based system

Antonyms

• Nepotism
• Oligarchy
• Classism
• Cronyism

Etymology

The term "meritocracy" is derived from the Latin word "meritum" meaning "merit," combined with the Greek suffix "-cracy," which means "rule" or "power." The word was first coined in the 1950s by British sociologist Michael Young in his book "The Rise of the Meritocracy."

Examples of Usage

1. In a true meritocracy, individuals are rewarded for their hard work and achievements, regardless of their background.
2. Critics argue that the education system should be reformed to ensure a more meritocratic approach, allowing equal opportunities for all students.
3. The company's promotion policy is based on meritocracy, promoting employees who consistently deliver exceptional results.
4. While the government claims to advocate for a meritocracy, many believe that personal connections still play a crucial role in hiring decisions.