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In one viral video, a woman explained why she chose not to tip her home-based hairdresser: “She doesn’t commute, and she doesn’t have overhead costs. How many people are making $40 an hour?” Her rationale sparked both support and backlash, illustrating the polarizing nature of tipping debates.
Adding to the frustration is the phenomenon of tipping prompts at self-checkouts and fast-food counters, where customers are asked to tip without receiving any direct service. These practices contribute to a sense of tipping fatigue, leaving many feeling pressured and resentful.
The Troubled Roots of Tipping in the U.S.
The history of tipping in America reveals a darker side. After the abolition of slavery, tipping became a widespread practice as employers sought to avoid paying fair wages to newly freed Black workers. This allowed businesses to justify low or nonexistent salaries, forcing workers to depend entirely on customers’ generosity.
This exploitative foundation set a precedent that persists today. Tipped workers, particularly women and people of color, continue to face financial instability due to the inconsistencies of the tipping system. Critics argue that tipping perpetuates systemic inequality, placing the onus of fair compensation on customers rather than employers.
Tipping Abroad: A Better Alternative?
In many European countries, tipping has become largely unnecessary, thanks to fair wage practices and service charges included in bills. Workers are paid a living wage by their employers, ensuring financial stability without relying on customer generosity.
By contrast, the U.S. model places workers’ livelihoods in the hands of patrons, creating uncertainty and tension. The European approach offers a glimpse of what tipping reform could look like: a system that values workers’ contributions without burdening customers.
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