It would be nice if tipping was just gone, and everybody got paid a living wage, like in most of the rest of the world. We're in a Nash equilibrium right now where if you don't tip, you're an asshole. Other people might even tip more if they hear about it, which reinforces the status quo. So I keep tipping well, and disliking that we're stuck here.
How can we end tipping culture and just have everyone be paid a living wage?
I think you could also argue that customers deserve a more transparent price structure, but honestly? The system is the way it is, it's been that way for my entire life, and it's probably not going to change any time soon, so I'm not really all that fussed by it. And another thing? If you're one of those people who's like, "I am against the tipping system and therefore I am not going to tip," you're not actually making any sort of point that's going to change anyone's mind, you're just fucking over a server that depends on those tips, and that makes you an asshole. Also? If we ever actually did eliminate tipping, you're just going to see menu prices go up by (at least) 20%, not all of which will probably actually make it into the pockets of the workers.
Now all of the stuff about asking for tips for roles where previously tips were never expected is a different issue. People need to learn to be grownups and give no tip. Even if you have to manually type in 0 for the tip. Even if the person at the register is looking you in the eye when you do it. The situation is very different for people who are making tipped minimum wage vs untipped.
Damn I love your thoughts! We should be friends!