First Poll: to tip or not to tip?
Okay, this might not work, but I like trolling for intuitions when I'm not sure of something, so I thought I'd try to take a poll for some intuitions from the lucky few who know about this blog. Here's the question: would you rather live in a society with tipping for services rendered, or without tipping?
In NZ, tipping is non-existent (except when Americans visit, and ruin it for everyone). Even if you get a great meal at a five-star restaurant, there is no expectation that you'll tip. Of course, it's nice if you want to (the servers won't complain), but there's simply no need to. Wages aren't set in a way that depends on servers getting tipped, servers don't expect it. It's their job. And the price of your meal already includes the cost of service.
So what are the pros and cons of not tipping? Pros: you know the price of your meal at the start of the evening; there's no norm to follow about correct tipping; servers' financial well-being doesn't depend on the often inconsistent tip. Con: less incentive for servers to perform their tasks well (which, in my limited experience, does occasionally result in poorer service).
So since I'm not sure which system is preferable, anyone have a vote? Anything I'm missing here?
posted by Josh @ 11:52 PM
3 comments
3 Comments:
No tip. Your point about servers' financial well-being not being dependent upon inconsistent tipping is the most important one, I think. American powers-that-be seem to function on the belief that systemic support of those in need is not necessary, since "we" (faith communities, neighbors and such) will take care of "our" own; but, we are seeing how well that tactic works (New Orleans being the most glaring current example).
I think the tip is analogous-much as you suggest, many people in the U.S. don't really care about other people-in that they're unwilling to sacrifice some of their privilege to assist others (i.e., higher taxes). I think that having a system in place in which servers' livelihoods aren't dependent upon a tip is not only preferable in & of itself, but is also more indicative of a society in which its' citizens actually care about each other, in general. I prefer no/ optional tip (I prefer a society of people who care about each other).
Okay, not tipping wins!
I would much rather NOT tip but ONLY if the staff is paid a decent wage with benefits...rare if almost non-existent in the USA. Too bad!
Post a Comment
<< Home