I just remembered why I don't read or post in discussions of articles or famous blog entries. Every time I read through the comments, I am reminded just how incredibly cruel people can be for no reason whatsoever. I feel scorn for these people.

OK, so I was reading a feature by the blogger from Waiter Rant about British tippers. First of all, I just want to say that nowhere in the post did he call the people mean; in fact, he said they were rather nice. He also explained why some British people are likely to tip as low as they do--different customs, yes.

Anyway.

People fly off the handle. I mean, seriously, suddenly it's a discussion about how the American government is an ineffective, tyrannical system that needs to be overhauled. Then some people have a go at Americans in general...? I am not sure why. There is also the occasional "if you're too stupid or lazy to get a real job (ie one where you can't read a book or smoke a joint between fetching people drinks) you don't deserve any tips" comment.

Obviously, it isn't only the British that make such rude comments. But that's the one I was reading.

I don't really understand it. I know that anonymity can breed an open, honest, constructive environment, but I have also found that it too readily encourages people to make complete asses out of themselves.


True, this isn't really a big deal in the long run.

But why shouldn't the rules of etiquette be observed online as well as off?