AFAIC, that would be for service in restaurants & bars, for taxis, and for discretionary services in which the gratuity comprises the total cost of the service requested. Off the top of my head, I can think of no other instances where I feel an obligation to tip. YMMV.

Early on, I put in my time doing manual and semi-skilled minimum-wage labor, and I took pride in my work. The customer paid my employer for the job, and my employer paid me.

So you see, I've been in that situation, so I have no obscure sense of guilt for my current success, nor do I need my ego stroked in exchange for a few bucks. Furthermore, I don't like the concept of hidden costs, whether they be the new tip du jour or the latest extortionate energy surcharge, or what have you.

You're certainly welcome to tip whomever as much as you like, but don't presume that this constitutes an equivalent obligation upon me.

[This message has been edited by taucher (edited 09-30-2002).]