This entry presents the concept of meritocracy in contrast with aristocracy. It discusses the context of its emergence and the political and social consequences of its development, especially in the contexts of education, families, and the world of work. It critically analyzes the meritocratic ideal as a regime that fosters the increase and reproduction of inequality, causing socially harmful impacts for both the losers and the winners. It ends by arguing that if we wish to build more egalitarian and democratic societies, we should seriously consider dismantling the meritocratic hierarchy and seeking a common good outside the realms of classification and unbridled competition.