Agree, we have an abundance of capital and labor but a dearth of opportunities for both. At least compared to the Post WW2 era.

Well said. It's going to cause us to re-think the capital/labor relationship.

UBI will almost certainly be a necessity, but then the question is who will mop the floors and what is the impetus of progress.

Do you think there is not enough demand for software engineering? I find it more likely that these barriers are in place because of political incompetence (expensive US schools) or as a legacy (stupid high school system, no support and motivation for above average students).

Capitalism has lots of opportunities for smart people to create wealth. It's hard to just be a "worker" or "researcher", but if you are smart and determined you should be able to create a business that makes the whole world richer.

I do agree though there is a lot of wasted talent and effort.

That requires lots of risk that may not be feasible to students funding their education with debt, and with skills in spaces that have regulatory overhead.