E. G. For storage and performs reasons. 5 bytes vs 9 bytes. Multiplying by amount of users and various indexes - can produce very noticeably difference. More records per page.

Is there objective way to define what is fair? Otherwise words “fair pay” make 0 sense

Not sure where you are in the US, but that is definitely not my experience. Cars usually stop the moment I stop on the side of the road. At least In California