A belief that opportunities and resources in society are allocated solely by merit, ignoring systemic barriers, is best described as what?

• A. Colorblind ideology
• B. Myth of meritocracy
• C. Merit-based assumption
• D. Fairness principle

Answer: (B)

The belief that opportunities and resources in society are allocated solely by merit, ignoring systemic barriers, is described as the myth of meritocracy. This term challenges the idea that outcomes arise only from individual effort and ability, highlighting that structural factors—such as unequal access to quality education, discrimination, and limited networks—shape who gets ahead. By naming it a myth, we acknowledge that calling outcomes purely merit-based can hide real barriers and justify inequality, which helps explain why equity-focused reforms are needed. Other terms like colorblind ideology or a general fairness principle don’t specifically critique the notion that merit alone determines success or identify the hidden systemic obstacles that the myth of meritocracy exposes.