Which concept suggests that in the West, social classes could interminge, allowing for a more egalitarian society?

The concept of social integration suggests that in the West, social classes could intermingle, fostering a sense of equality and community among different social strata. This idea was particularly prominent in the context of westward expansion in the United States, where opportunities for land ownership and economic advancement were more accessible compared to the more rigid social hierarchies of the Eastern states. In frontier towns and communities, individuals from various backgrounds, including farmers, miners, and small business owners, often collaborated and shared resources, which contributed to a belief in the possibility of upward mobility and a more egalitarian society.

This interconnectedness helped break down traditional barriers associated with wealth and class, allowing for a unique blend of social and economic backgrounds that characterized many Western settlements. The notion that individuals could rise in status based on merit rather than family lineage was appealing and became part of the American identity during the 19th century, further promoting the idea of a classless society in the West.

In contrast, rugged individualism emphasizes self-reliance and personal achievement, which does not necessarily focus on social class dynamics; gender equality pertains to the rights and roles of women, without tackling the broader socio-economic intermingling; and American exceptionalism refers to the belief that the United States has