Caste is best described as an example of which of the following?

Caste is a classic example of ascribed status in sociology because an individual’s social position is fixed at birth and cannot be changed by personal effort. A person is born into a particular caste, and this identity is inherited from parents. Unlike achieved status, which is based on education, skills, or achievements, caste does not depend on merit. It traditionally determines occupation, marriage choices, and social relationships. Due to limited social mobility, individuals cannot easily move from one caste to another. Hence, caste is best understood as an ascribed status.