Step 1: Understanding caste and social class systems.
- Caste system is a rigid hierarchical social structure, particularly prevalent in India, where individuals are born into specific social groups, or castes, that define their status. In the caste system, status is typically fixed and cannot be changed through education or hard work. Social mobility is extremely limited.
- Social class system, on the other hand, is more flexible. It is based on factors like wealth, education, occupation, and social achievement, which can change over time. Hard work, education, and economic success can allow individuals to move up or down the social class ladder.
Step 2: Conclusion.
Since status in the social class system can change through factors like education and hard work, the correct answer is Social class.