made sure every citizen was financially secure

regardless of whether they worked or not?

Many nation states already have

some form of safety net for citizens.

Some do this better than others.

People can be stigmatized

just for trying to use the safety net

and trying to get the benefits you're entitled to

can be really difficult

not to mention confusing.

Long forms, measly payments

and harsh rules imposed by governments

trying to push people back into work.

And, of course, the more complicated the system

the more it costs to administrate.

But, as jobs become less secure

a safety net is more important than ever.

One possible solution has been around for centuries.

Now it's gaining traction around the world.

A Citizen's Basic Income

would pool all this money

and give everyone an equal share.

On top of what you might earn at work

you'd receive an unconditional amount

each month from the government.

Not a fortune, but enough to live a dignified life

without the bureaucracy of welfare systems

or the fear of poverty hanging over your head

and when everyone receives the same

there's no stigma involved.

Critics say society is too complex

for such simple plans.

What about those with greater needs,

disabilities or higher rent to pay?

And what if the guarantee of a free lunch

puts people off finding work?

But campaigners say all the evidence

points to basic income being a success.

In test runs, people still worked

But had the option to pursue

more fulfilling jobs and hobbies

And when everyone has a bit of money to spend

the economy grows.

So, is this an idea whose time has come?

Would you like to learn more about it?

Watch "Free Lunch Society"

brought to you by Moving Docs.

Check the link to find out where.