i think they do enjoy it
...or at least feel compelled to do it. it's interesting you mention gambling. I think like compulsive gambling, extreme meanness is a coping mechanism, the same way as those who rack up tens of thousands on credit cards rewarding themselves with stuff they neither need nor can a afford do it because of some underlying issue.

but unlike being a Dr Who Nerd or whatever, sadly it is not a harmless hobby - offending strangers and alienating friends and family over a few pence here and there has more than a whiff of tragedy about it.
( spimf ™ is whoever you want him to be, Sun 26 Oct 2008, 5:02, 1 reply)

tipping debate
im not rich but im not tight. and its not like suddenly thinking a bit more about a few pennies is going to change my financial state, so im going to carry on enjoying my life and living within my means

i am from the UK, where its not really cusomary to tip other than in restuarants.

I now live in the Czech Republic where its customary to tip all kinds of services, but in fairness they earn it.

here it is deemed inpolite to not leave a tip, and i agree, you sit down and dont have to worry about your glass ever getting empty,

it reminds me of a story when i first moved here... i frequented the same bar every night wen i arrived, as i could sit alone on my laptop and not look out of place for dining alone. one evening i had plenty to eat and drink and my bill came to 300kcz, i left a 500kcz note and was given 200kcz..

'where is the tip you tight cunt?' ihear you cry! as i was drunk and new to the currency i only realisd the next day. i went to the same bar that night and racked up another bill of around 300kcz. that night i put down 370kcz to cover the 10% for both nights and a few kcz extra just because they were so nice to me...

i gave them the bill as i walked out and dnt say a word.

i still go back to that bar 2 months later, (even though i have 3 chains closer to my house)

these guys remember what i drink and treat me like the princess that i am- win win situation

life is too short to be a tight bastard... being sensible with money is one thing (living within your means) but being so tight even your friends call you a scrooge is not a position anyone should want to be in
(jenko83, Sun 26 Oct 2008, 10:19, closed)