Ever been to a museum that had an admission fee that was by donation? Have you ever paid more than the suggested amount? … Ever paid less?

Simpsons ^[1] fans will know the title of this post is in reference to the episode with Brad Goodman ^[2], a motivational speaker that encourages the impressionable townsfolk of Springfield to “do what you feel.”

^[3]

A little while ago Radiohead introduced the same type of thinking ^[4] when they released their new album online. The cost? Whatever you felt like paying.

Apparently this simple idea based on personal opinion and pretty much the honor system is catching on around Vancouver.

Instead of set menu prices, customers are encouraged to pay only what they think the meal is worth, by considering factors like ingredients, labour and service.

Vancouver’s own Rhizome Café ^[5] is among the restaurants giving the idea a go and co-founder Lisa Moore says so far, she hasn’t lost any money. [News1130 ^[6]]

What could this type of thinking do to certain businesses in Vancouver? I really don’t think it will be very widespread, although the publicity and hype surrounding a promotion like this might pay off. There’s one thing I’m sure of, all those restaurants in Yaletown that charge $9 for a bowl of tomato soup might not get the returns they’d hope for.