> I'd call "be polite, take my order, bring me my
>food" functional service. On a few occasions,
>Leen and I have had truly amazing service that
>goes beyond function and into something of an
>art form.

I guess my distaste for tipping comes from the fact that I don't notice good service, only bad service. And I resent still having to leave a tip for the person who gave me bad service, because the whole tipping system is basically broken and stupid.

Last night during the Oscars broadcast I commented to Stephen that I don't see how people judge awards like "Best Editing" because to me, by definition, film editing is only noticeably when it's BAD. He disagreed with me, as I'm sure you would, but my point is the same. I *expect* good film editing, and when I get it, I don't notice it because the editing has done it's job and allowed me to focus on the story and the scene rather than being pulled out of it by bad cuts and fades and whatnot.

Similarly, good service is not noticeable to me. I *expect* it, and when I get it, It allows me to concentrate on more important things, such as EATING MY DINNER. And I don't think I should have to "encourage" good service by tipping. I think good service should be expected as part of the service provided by the restaurant. Nobody tips me when I do a "good job" at work. It's EXPECTED that I'll do a good job. I think it should be the same for all professions.

-- Dave