Is the 'system' failing, or did an individual fail to understand the system and then learn to adapt and overcome against the odds? I would prefer to vote for t

Is the 'system' failing, or did an individual fail to understand the system and then learn to adapt and overcome against the odds? I would prefer to vote for the person who grew up in poor/difficult circumstances and managed to succeed (in some way) despite those circumstances, over someone who grew up in the same poor circumstances and couldn't figure out how to make it. Which person is better equipped to help people help themselves? The one who did it? or the one who couldn't figure out how to do it?