The debate that will never stop... here we go!
First of all, the main attribute of communism is that there is no private property. Everything is owned by the state and there is no redistribution of wealth, because...well....there is no wealth. I am Romanian and my country has been a prisoner of communism for 45 years and I could see what it was like. Yes, you are right about the lack of freedom, but the redistribution of wealth is the definition of socialism, rather than communism.
Secondly, you said under communism the focus is on equality. I will have to disagree again. Intelectuals, political dissidents and rich people have all been discriminated against, imprisoned and treated as sh*t. Where is the equality in that?
When it comes to the social democratic system, again, there is no equality! I start a business, work hard to develop it, create jobs, etc and the state will penalize me through increased taxation and incentivize people who don't work hard, who don't create jobs through lower taxes and welfare. Now, I know there are disabled people, veterans etc who need welfare, but if you don't suffer from anything, go to work! You don't need welfare, that will always keep you poor.
Both communism and socialism are marxist theories, that have never been about equality, but only "mob rules" ideologies.
Lastly, you said capitalism is all about self-help and all that, but the economic system cannot facilitate it. A relaxed fiscal system and as few regulations as possible will always facilitate entrepreneurship. Free markets and reduced taxes & regulations will always incentivize people to start businesses and employ others. Also, a flat tax means everybody gives the same percentage of their wealth back to the state, and that my friend, is called equality.
My suggestion is that instead of being jealous on the rich for having money and trying to take their money as if it was ours, we should ask ourselves how we can help the poor become rich (or prosperous) as well .
Good day!
RE: Alternatives to Capitalism and the Building of Resilience