What role do individuals play in a capitalist system?

The very rich control the market and decide what industries to invest in or lend money too. They influence the government so that they don't have to pay very much in taxes, which would support the nation's infrastructure, & provide jobs. The middle class works hard to produce products, and also spends money on products, which helps to make the rich investors even more wealthy. The poor are typically unable to compete in a capitalist economy (for a number of reasons), & require public assistance to survive.