Originally Posted by
chelmkamp
To be fair, I think the Colonial Brits and other Europeans were galavanting around the globe handing out gratuities long before..
Yep. But just from my observation, these days it's Americans that do it more than anyone else. So I don't think "US custom" is unfair.
I would suggest too that whilst those from non-tipping cultures usually feel they should tip when local custom requires it, Americans have a greater propensity to insist on tipping (they need it, doesn't do any harm, it's my money etc) in non-tipping cultures.
As you say, there is a link with bribery, all be it plausibly deniable in the case of tipping.
It is an fascinating topic. So interesting, I wrote my law masters' dissertation on it a while back. The UK has since enacted a draconian law (Bribery Act 2010) which even had the Post Office issuing guidance to postmen as to when they could/could not accept a tip at Christmas. It is extra-territorial in effect and unlike the US FCPA applies to overseas private transactions.
Originally Posted by
chelmkamp
There are far more dangerous things in this world than misplaced American generosity, however naive and unnecessary it may be.
A courageous comment!