Tips for tipping in restaurants

I disagree with the system of tipping, but I also recognise that that is the system the server is trapped in, so I still tip.
People need to remember that the server get taxed on tips, whether they recieve them or not. (I'm not sure of the exact percentage the IRS uses to assume tips).
Having worked in a restaurant (not as a server, but you'd overhear them talk) I do think many servers expect a higher than reasonable tip. (When did 20% become "standard" and anything below that "stingy"? When I was growing up the "standard" was 10%, it was even in the etiquette books.)

Regarding tipping, an establishment could pay a server $15/hr. In my state the minimum wage for tipped employees is $5.03/hr. Of course this is a substantial increase in payroll costs and so the establishment will raise its prices, so a guest is going to pay what would have been an 18% tip anyway. Sounds reasonable, yes? But... The reality is no. Look at it from a service quality point of view. The server who's paid a fixed wage with no tips has no real incentive to give great service. They're going to make the same amount of money no matter what. And thus, you service quality and overall experience is diminished.
When one goes out to eat in a restaurant, doesn't one expect a great experience that includes great service? Of course they do. They don't want a counter clerk at the post office waiting on them. Think about it. The system of tipping is a means by which customers receive a great experience.

Not anymore, because tipping is expected, regardless of service. If it were optional (something you CAN do, but aren't expected to, it would be different). If it were about quality of service, why is it considered rude to not tip at all, even if service was bad? It because it have come to be treated as wages, except unlike wages there is no contractual guarantee of them, and no legal recourse when they are not paid.

Yes, the server can do nothing when a customer stiffs them. Hence, the meme. LOL :)

Of course one might consider... If you're in a restaurant where tipping is customary and you're not getting great service... THAT'S when you leave a shitty tip... Or no tip. Plus, if you like the place and want them to be in business for future visits, one might consider letting the manager know of the poor service.