"In practice, socialism didn't work. But socialism could never have worked because it is based on false premises about human psychology and society, and gross ignorance of human economy"

David Horowitz's quote seriously examines socialism, suggesting that it is essentially flawed both in theory and practice. The initial part of the quote, "In practice, socialism didn't work", indicates historical examples where socialist systems were executed and reportedly stopped working to accomplish their stated goals of equality, prosperity, and efficient resource distribution. Countries with socialist federal governments frequently faced economic stagnancy, lack of development, and often, oppressive political programs. Horowitz likely describes these useful failures to argue against socialism's viability.

The expression "socialism might never ever have worked" implies that the ideology is inherently doomed to stop working, regardless of context or execution. This assertion is rooted in Horowitz's belief that socialism is "based on false properties about human psychology and society". This suggests that socialism misjudges humanity, possibly by overestimating altruism or the desire to work selflessly for the cumulative excellent without competitive rewards. He might argue that individuals are naturally likely towards individualism and individual gain, which socialism supposedly negates or undervalues.

Additionally, Horowitz mentions "gross lack of knowledge of human economy". This is a critique of socialism's financial design, which typically includes significant state control or ownership over resources and means of production. Critics like Horowitz argue that such models fail to account for the complexities and performances of market-driven economies, where supply and need dynamically guide production and innovation. They might mention that centralized preparation can cause inefficiencies, resource misallocation, and stifled entrepreneurial spirit.

In general, Horowitz's statement is an extensive review that dismisses socialism based upon historical proof and perceived misunderstandings of human and financial dynamics. His position aligns with classical liberal and conservative viewpoints that champion free markets and individualism as much better matched to harness human capacity and drive societal progress.