Which term describes the belief that individuals can shape their own life outcomes entirely through personal effort?

The belief that individuals can shape their own life outcomes entirely through personal effort is best encapsulated by the term meritocracy. This concept suggests that success is achieved through talent, hard work, and determination, implying that everyone's opportunities and capabilities are equal and that individuals have the power to influence their own success regardless of their background. In a meritocratic society, individuals are rewarded based on their achievements and abilities rather than their social status or connections.

In contrast, while agency refers to an individual's capacity to make choices and act independently, it doesn't specifically emphasize the outcome of success linked solely to hard work. Neoliberalism, on the other hand, is a broader economic and political philosophy advocating for free-market policies and reduced government intervention, which can sometimes endorse meritocratic ideas, but isn’t solely focused on personal effort. Lastly, equity pertains to fairness and justice within the social system, particularly regarding access to opportunities, which acknowledges that not everyone starts from the same place, thus differing from the meritocratic ideal.