The European Union is contemplating a “pilot scheme” of free money for everyone. But this weekend nearly 80 percent of Swiss voters opposed such a giveaway. A referendum to introduce a guaranteed basic income for everyone living in the wealthy country was preceded by what is being called an uneasy debate about the future of work at a time of increasing automation. Supporters had said introducing a monthly income of 2,500 Swiss francs ($2,563) per adult and 625 francs per child under 18 no matter how much they work would promote human dignity and public service. Opponents said it would weaken the economy and perhaps bankrupt the country.
