There is scarcely anything so absurd as the fundamental principle of Marx's materialist interpretation of history: "The hand mill made feudal society; the steam mill, capitalist society." It was precisely capitalist society that was needed to create the necessary conditions for the original conception of the steam mill to be developed and put into effect. It was capitalism that created the technology, and not the other way round.

Liberalism - In the Classical Tradition
Ludwig von Mises, 1927

I just can't understand why people would embrace socialism. Giving up freedom, individuality, and the chance at becoming the best that you can at whatever you want, in exchange for a government that doesn't produce, but only takes. There is no logical argument for socialism.

And I know no one among my progressive friends who wants socialism. As the author says, capitalism is imperfect - any "system" is perfect. While I certainly favor capitalism, I do believe it does not provide every answer needed for some elements of civic life.
That does not mean I favor socialism! So many jump to the conclusion that to have government involved in anything is to surrender to the other system. Nothing could be further from the truth. Dogmatism is the enemy.

And I know no one among my progressive friends who wants socialism.

Then you are not very clear on the concept of progressivism. I guess you've been duped.