One sign global inequality is reaching crisis proportions: In mainstream economic circles, the once-radical idea of free money for all is gaining currency.

A Senate vote to end debate that would have moved toward a vote on a short-term spending bill failed Friday night, teeing up the government for an all-but-certain shutdown at midnight.

Global economic inequality is deepening, with only 62 individuals owning as much wealth as the 3.5 billion people in the bottom half of the world's distribution of wealth.