Is Tipping Out of Control in the United States?

VOCABULARY

Gratuity	a sum of money given to a person for providing a service, usually in addition to the cost of the service itself. It's customary to leave a gratuity of 15-20% at restaurants in the US.
Unsustainable	not able to be maintained at the current level or rate. The increasing demand for natural resources is causing unsustainable environmental damage.
Disproportionately	in a way that is not equal or fair in relation to something else. Women are disproportionately affected by poverty compared to men.
Predictable	able to be foreseen or expected. The weather forecast predicted rain for tomorrow.
Mercy	compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm. The judge showed mercy and gave the defendant a lighter sentence.
Incentive	something that motivates or encourages someone to do something. The promise of a bonus is a strong incentive for employees to work harder.
Norm	a standard or pattern of behavior that is typical or expected in a particular society or group. Tipping is the norm in the United States.
Free market	an economic system in which prices and wages are determined by supply and demand without interference from the government. Supporters of tipping see it as a reflection of the free market system.

ARTICLE

Tipping has become a controversial topic in the United States, with many arguing that the practice is out of control.

Tipping, or the act of giving a gratuity to a service worker, is a cultural norm in the United States.

While tipping is voluntary, it is expected in many situations, particularly in the restaurant industry. However, the amount that is expected has been increasing over time, leading to concerns that tipping is becoming unsustainable and unfair to workers.

Critics of tipping argue that it puts too much pressure on customers to pay extra for services that should be included in the cost of goods. They also argue that tipping disproportionately affects low-wage workers, particularly those in the service industry.

Many service workers, including servers and bartenders, rely on tips to make a living wage. However, because tips are often unpredictable and can vary widely, these workers are at the mercy of their customers and may struggle to make ends meet.

Supporters of tipping argue that it provides an incentive for service workers to provide excellent service. They also argue that tipping allows customers to have greater control over the quality of their service.

Supporters of tipping believe that the practice is a reflection of the free market, where the price of goods and services is determined by supply and demand.

The debate over tipping is unlikely to be resolved anytime soon.

While some states, such as California and Oregon, have abolished the practice of tipping in favor of a higher minimum wage, tipping remains the norm in many other parts of the country.

As the economy continues to change, it is possible that the practice of tipping will evolve as well. However, for the time being, tipping remains a contentious issue in the United States.

DISCUSSION

1. Do you think tipping is a fair practice? Why or why not?

2. Have you ever felt pressured to leave a larger tip than you wanted to? If so, in what situation?

3. Do you believe that service workers should be paid a living wage without relying on tips? Why or why not?

4. Do you think the practice of tipping should be abolished and replaced with a higher minimum wage? Why or why not?

5. Have you noticed any changes in the amount of tips you give or receive over time? If so, what do you think is causing this trend?

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FURTHER DISCUSSION

1. What are some cultural differences in tipping practices between the United States and other countries?

2. How do you decide how much to tip in different situations, such as restaurants or hair salons?

3. Have you ever received exceptional service that warranted a larger tip than usual? What was the experience like?

4. Do you think there are any potential negative consequences to the practice of tipping, such as discrimination or favoritism towards certain customers?

5. How do you feel about restaurants or other establishments that add a gratuity charge to the bill automatically?