He's saying, "Libertarianism lacks evidence of its working because, in order to have a peaceful and functioning society where we can engage in respectful, non-violent exchanges, we need a powerful government setting up rules, protecting our rights, enforcing agreements and laws, providing welfare so people aren't desperate, and taxing us in order to pay the costs of doing all that."
Yeah, he's saying that. And it's exactly as ridiculous as saying we need unicorns to make our crops grow. There's zero evidence for his claims, and plenty of evidence against them, including the fact that I don't need government "help".
Government is the opposite of peaceful society. It is a sign your society has failed and isn't functional. Its every "exchange" is aggressive. It is disrespectful. Government never protects rights, but exists by violating them. Etc.
Saying government is "necessary" is an extraordinary claim; it would require extraordinary evidence. It doesn't matter how many people believe it, or how long gullible people the world over have believed it. It is absurd.
RE: Libertarianism can and does work