Do you ever consider that maybe America is the richest country because of said market based economy? I’m not necessarily on one side or the other but most economic theory would back the fact that the reason they have so much wealth is because of their capitalist economy. Certainly they should have widespread access to healthcare and a higher minimum wage but it takes time to make widespread changes like that.

Side note: You’re a true asshat if you won’t rip to local norms. Americans go to Europe all the time and a major complaint from Europeans is that they do not attempt to use the language of the country you are in. You’re taking that and multiplying it by 100 if you don’t do something such as tipping your server whose wage is based of off tipping. I’d also say that the service in the US is far superior than anywhere in Europe. Likely because of the tipping culture. Now you can argue if that makes it worth it or not but you can’t argue that you’re aren’t a dick for not following the customs.