Like a lot of things, the IDEA behind tipping for services was a great one. But, in practice, it's gotten abused. Too many people didn't and don't use it appropriately.confusedfan said:I think the point in part that he was making was that if wages/salary were appropriate in the first place there should be no need to tip, not that people don't deserve the money in the end. (and I didn't say I agreed with him, just that it was an interesting point of view) .
But, I do actually have an issue with tipping for health care services - maybe it's the difference in health care systems, but to tip any sort of health care worker here (ie. registered massage therapist working in a medical/health-related practice rather than in a spa) comes across as if you're trying to get priority treatment and can be considered inappropriate.
The IDEA was that it motivates people to work harder, assuming they are money driven which not everyone is, and then the individual gets better service and pays more for better service.
In reality, too many people pay it out of obligation, so it's effect was completely diluted and rendered basically meaningless now.
Personally, I use the system for it's intended purpose. Provide great service and I will tip you generously. Don't and I won't tip you the average rate, but much less.
I'm a great tipper. But, it really makes me laugh when I get somebody who is an entitler. Pity for them, because they missed out on an opportunity to make a better than usual tip.
I could be wrong, but I think there are ethical restraints on tipping in the health care industry here?