Why does everyone have to be tipped?

To my "British" eyes, this is the most ludicrous post I've ever seen on this board!!

Tipping is for good service - and that is all. If you want to tip as you EXIT the plane, because you feel that the crew have gone over and above what you (as a paying passenger) have a right to expect, then please go ahead. If you tip as they take your coat, deliver you some pre-flight nuts and drink, give you a pillow, serve your dinner - please go ahead, but be aware that you risk the chance of changing the attendants attitude to service. Please note at this juncture, that I am not talking about the vast majority of attendants, who perform their job BECAUSE it is it their job, NOT because they want a tip.

Remember that a flight attendant's job is primarily to ensure your safety, not to serve your drinks. If you would tip a fireman for putting a fire at your house out, please go ahead and (try) to tip flight attendants. Otherwise, please stop trying to "buy" people's goodwill!