Capitalism definitely did not fail us. It is just the nature of capitalism. When it is good it is good. When it is bad people get screwed. The government steps in to help when it gets bad. At least that is the philosophy of Keynesian economics. Sort of like an individual with bipolar disorder taking mood stabilizers. However, you have to find the right meds at the right dose which can be vexing. I think it is called a bull or a bear economy for a reason.