There is no "perfect system" in the same way that there is no "perfect algorithm", unless you can define the goal.

What is the best sorting algorithm? Is it the one that sorts a random list in the shortest time? Or the one that uses the least memory? Most likely we'll pick by balancing a few important metrics, which leaves us with "optimal". Far from perfect.

If we're discussing Capitalism vs Socialism, instead of criticizing the opposition for ignorance (like every comment below the WashPo story), let's accept that different groups are optimizing for different goals. And there are so many competing objectives: efficient distribution of wealth, national economic growth, safety net for unlucky/disadvantaged, protecting shared resources (environment), etc etc etc.

... said every proponent of every $x-ism ever.

Capitalism is far from perfect. And treating capitalism as if it should be perfect is exactly what causes people to move away from it. Capitalism isn't perfect. it's just the best we have given the alternatives.

Yes. Perfect system for perfect people. Problem is not lacking perfect capitalism but lacking perfect people in the first place.

communists say the same thing, I don't think you can completely separate a theory and its implementations though.

Much like communism, right?