Definitely sad when we rely so heavily on computers... Mind you, I'm an computer consultant myself, but still, some people/businesses just can't function without one.

Is this a testament to specialization, unions or minimum wage workers using a computer that can't boot itself? In any case it's pretty sad.

In my experience, many cashiers can not make change without the register telling them the amount to give back.
The other day I had $10.37 in groceries at a convenience store and gave the clerk a $20 and a $1, wanting a $10 bill and change back. She could not figure it out.

If you had included two pennies, that would have really thrown her a curve...

I've done that. $9.97 and I hand over a $10 and 2 pennies. "What are teh two pennies for?" :rolleyes: Hint: it's a nickel change. She hands me my two pennies back and then gives me three more.

If you really want to throw them a curve, ask them if they have any half dollars. Here,literally, 3 out of 4 don't even know what you are talking about.

It is unbelievable how those in my generation cannot do simple math.

Jeanette Isabelle

The really sad part is that most of this generation is really smart, they have just been dumbed down by society. They are not expected to know how to do anything but recognize a picture of a hamburger on the register. Most kids of today have never even written a letter. Not an email but a real letter.

I've had that experience with clerks before... Giving them pennies, after they punch in the money I gave them and have no clue what to do with them... It is simple math people!

Nomad, I've shared your insights with everyone I know (giving you credit of course!). Truly a great post.