social mobility

n. The ability of individuals to move in status from one generation to another, or during their lifetime. Upward mobility refers to the change from one's socioeconomic status to a higher status, whereas downward mobility refers to the change from one's socioeconomic status to a lower status. Changes in social status may be due to changes to an individual's wealth, income, occupation, education, or some other social variable. The ancient Chinese imperial examinations provided opportunities for upward social mobility. Individuals from any social class were given the chance to become a high-ranking government official. Society does not always provide opportunities for mobility.

During the feudal era social mobility was extremely low. Educational opportunities are often tied with social mobility. In a society high in social mobility, higher education is available to people regardless of individuals' socioeconomic backgrounds. In a society low in social mobility, higher education is often limited to privileged individuals. – soi, FM