Now I know a good lot of you guys would back me up automatically, but for the chaditalists, with their firm grip on effort=money, I shall elaborate.
The system of tipping was integrated so food service business owners could employ workers, despite not having enough money. Now it's a staple for any service where someone performs for you. Be it serving, bellhopping, or moving items. These workers could easily excel, warranting a tip.
However, the fact it is expected for working to expectations defeats the original intent of the tip. The extra dough is for those who go above and beyond. Being paid for your work is your boss's job. Don't add extra fees on the customer, then blame your employees attitude for not having enough. Would food be more expensive? Yes, but you wouldn't be told to pay extra for the poor guy, and he's not such a poor guy.
Furthermore, people usually don't account for tips. I work in Southwest Houston, where people count their cash to be sure they can ride the bus to work that pay period. 7/10 Don't have the extra to pay for tips, so while I'm projected to make so much, I never do.
Every time I serve someone, I do my best to make sure they have exactly what they want, as to attempt securing my tips. However, so many people won't, reguardless of how happy they look, how fast I assembled their order, or how many questions I answer. If there was any reasoning behind it, it hasn't been made apparent to me or my superiors. They say don't worry about it, but if I can't pay my bills how can I just let this go?
Even when I've got what I need, it still feels like I'm doing something wrong every time when I don't receive my full pay for a full days work. Because it's up to wether or not the customer can afford to, or if they feel it necessary. No wonder I don't get many a day.
In the end, I just wish they weren't part of income, but the classic donation of a kind patron. I can see how consistently getting them would count as such, but if it wasn't mandatory for me to make ends meet, I wouldn't be writing this.