On: Has gratuity culture reached a tipping point?

[simbolit]

Tipping is great, if it is optional.

I feel in many parts of the US it is now expected, if not demanded.

This is bullshit. If your business model doesn't work without tips, you need to raise the base prices. And in pubs and bars and such you need to pay your staff a proper wage.

Tipping is great, if it is optional.

[jart → simbolit]

Tipping is basically a soft form of bribery, which isn't great at all. When it becomes mandatory, it's even worse.