What type of system is characterized by a social ranking based primarily on economic position where achieved characteristics can influence mobility?

The class system is defined by social stratification based on economic position, where individuals can move up or down the social ladder based on achieved characteristics, such as education, income, and occupation. This system allows for a level of social mobility that is not present in more rigid social structures, like the caste system, which typically ascribes social status based on birth and does not allow for mobility. In a class system, someone can improve their socioeconomic status through personal effort, skills, and achievements, which contrasts with systems that predominantly rely on ascribed characteristics (often hereditary traits or social roles). Therefore, recognizing the pivotal role of economic position along with the influence of personal achievement helps in understanding why this option accurately describes the system in question.