The Kind-Hearted Smart Aleck

I'm curious to see a study which compares and contrasts the pros and cons of tips (as far as tipping waiters, bartenders, etc.). When many Europeans visit the States, they're often times confused by the concept of tipping. In their native countries, the "tips" are already built in to the overall salary, which makes for a more consistent annual wage. When they hear how much waiters and bartenders make per hour here, they're often times shocked and ask how they live off that. That's when the waiter or bartender explains the concept of tipping. I guess my question is, which is the better method overall? I think the theory in this country is that people will work harder for the extra tip - the "bonus" at the end of his/her job. If he or she doesn't excel, they deservedly won't be tipped well and if they do excel, the tip will reflect that and continue to inspire them to excel day in and day out. However, how often is that the case? Regardless...

In car commercials, people usually speed by cars they normally wouldn't. Physically attractive people are usually driving the cars. They also will try to persuade the viewer through some special limited-time deal. It's a happy joy ride in these automobiles. It seems like they were just given the car to drive around in and show off to the public. Oh, they probably were, but anyway. There's a new commercial for the Jetta and how do they show the car off in these 30 seconds? Through head-on collisions! That's right! Then the folks in the Jetta get out of the car. They're alright and the car has only a slight dent! Amazing! The price, the reviews, the look, the speed, the attractive specimens in the car don't matter anymore! It's all about how well the car can take a hit! My, how I want to buy a Jetta now! They sure know how to convince their customers! They've convinced me and I'm not a customer. Guess what? It's going to stay that way! I have a...