New Delhi, Oct. 22 -- The idea that every citizen should be awarded an income by the state is not any more 'radical' than assuring people basic welfare. That label would apply better to declarations by leaders of artificial intelligence (AI).

This week, Elon Musk declared an intent to give "every kid in America" a single share in SpaceX next year. His AI-plus-space business was beaten to the mic by Anthropic, an AI company that committed 5% of its shares to a "public benefit fund" designed to solve problems caused by this technology.

One pressing problem may turn out to be a bulk takeover of office jobs by AI. It was once a matter of enlightened self-interest for private industry to help stem discontent with the outcomes of capitalism....