What concept does "social mobility" describe?

Social mobility describes the ability to move within the social hierarchy, which refers to an individual's or group's capacity to improve or change their social status. This concept is crucial in understanding how individuals can experience upward or downward movement in relation to wealth, education, job status, and other indicators of social stratification. It emphasizes the dynamic nature of social classes and how they can shift over time due to various factors, such as economic changes, educational opportunities, or policy reforms.

Understanding social mobility is essential, as it reflects the degree to which a society allows individuals to improve their social standing and the systems in place that facilitate or hinder such movements. This connection to the social structure helps analyze inequality and the potential barriers some groups may face compared to others.