Tipping has been a long-standing custom in the American service industry, initially meant as a gesture of appreciation for outstanding service. But over the years, it has shifted from being voluntary to something more expected, sparking debates about whether it’s still fair or even necessary.
The practice actually began in 19th-century Europe, where service workers were rewarded with extra pay for exceptional effort. When tipping made its way to the U.S., it was seen as a way for customers to show gratitude.
As time passed, however, tipping evolved into a crucial part of service workers’ income. Many industries began using it to offset low base wages, making tips not just a bonus—but a necessity.
This issue gained renewed attention when Dustin Anderson raised the question of whether tipping still makes sense in today’s world. He noted that it’s often expected now, regardless of how good the service actually is.
Plenty of people shared his view, saying tipping has gotten out of hand—even simple purchases like a cup of coffee or takeout come with a prompt for a tip.
While some say tipping is essential for workers who depend on it to get by, others believe the real problem is that employers are underpaying staff and relying on customers to make up the difference.
In the end, tipping culture has become overwhelming, with tip jars and prompts popping up in unexpected places. A move toward fair wages or built-in service charges—similar to the system in many European countries—might offer a more balanced and fair solution.