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Coming from a country that doesn't tip, I agree completely about that tipping is all about custom and social expectation. Its not a transaction that makes a lot
by greendestiny 19y ago
Coming from a country that doesn't tip, I agree completely about that tipping is all about custom and social expectation. Its not a transaction that makes a lot of sense without a lot of societal rules governing it. I certainly don't think that markets that operate with tipping run more efficiently than they would without.
The desires that might lead to a micropayment, like for respect and identification with a particular band, would perhaps be better served with a different macro good. If you can get the music for free, then you're paying out of a want to support and connect with the band, maybe that would be better served by asking people to buy a t-shirt or something.
- emfle 19y agoThat the tip is a percentage of the bill makes no sense whatsoever. Bringing you Filets de venaison frits sur leur sauce a l'echalote is no more work than bringing you a Sloppy Joe with fries. The only explanation I can think of is that it is a way for restaurant owners to encourage waiters to encourage customers to buy expensive, high-margin food.
- greendestiny 19y agoThat's what working on commission does. Tipping is just working on commission but with a bunch randomness and social rules as obtuse as victorian era manners.
- earthboundkid 19y agoIt also means that waiters at expensive restaurants can expect to earn more in tips. So, they get the more experienced waiters.
- andreyf 19y agoAccording to a food-aware friend of mine, the waiter who brings you Filets de venaison frits sur leur sauce a l'echalote should be able to explain to you exactly what ingredients went into the food, how it's made, and a lot of other intricacies about your meal.