Is tipping a mark of civilization?

Seneca (US)

The problem with tipping is that if only people from one country practice it then the citizens from that country will be treated differently by everyone in tourist destinations. Americans, for example, have for a long time roamed the world and giving tips; often these tips were excessive. This has corrupted minds in many countries. I have had a couple of altercations with Americans who thought I was being stingy when I refused to give a tip in China. You actually fall into line out of the need to adjust and conform. That's not good.

Customers eat Lanzhou beef noodles at a cafe-style restaurant in Lanzhou, Gansu province. [Photo/Xinhua]