Socialism

This past week we talked a lot about Marx, communism, socialism, etc. I have a very difficult time with this debate because I see both sides so clearly and understand each perspective quite well. I think the real issue isn't so much "which way of life is better" according to the government, but it should be according to the people that would be living under those conditions. So often we find ourselves analyzing what way of life is better for others. Who are we to debate, when we are not even in the picture? I feel like I cannot say yes or no to socialism/communism since I have never lived it. I can speak on capitalism and give my opinion about this, but that's all I feel I can do. I cannot compare.