An interesting angle perhaps we could discuss is how much of the persistence of this barbarian culture that tipping is, has to do with the fact that in the US, the expectations that displayed prices are final isn't very strong anymore, to the point that we now forget to identify obvious robberies in plain sight. Like this intellectual construction for openly ripping you off of your money by calling something a 'fee' :)

> Ever notice how this discussion evolves consistently, like clockwork every time? This person/role looks like someone deserving of a tip -> Tipping is stupid, do it like Europe. -> Service in Europe sucks. -> That's just a different kind of service/What about Japan? -> You can't compare, that's a different culture.

It makes perfect sense when you view it in the broader theme of HN loving to demonstrate the "superiority" of European culture, oftentimes taking inconsistent stances on different issues in order to maintain that position.