I think it really is highly dependent on the individual. For your example with restaurants I have the absolute opposite preference. When I go to a restaurant I'

I think it really is highly dependent on the individual. For your example with restaurants I have the absolute opposite preference. When I go to a restaurant I'm usually dining with friends so the social aspect is already covered - I don't want/need to make small chat with a waiter. Would be completely happy with an automated process there, for my mind that means more of my tip might go to the cook who is actually preparing my food in the first place.