Why is not wearing a tie considered impolite in some situations?

Question:

Why is not wearing a tie considered impolite in some situations?

I can understand being washed and groomed and neatly attired as a sign of respect to others, but I just don't get the tie thing.

To paraphrase someone else's words: 'How can men be considered intelligent when they tie a little noose around their necks everyday'

Besides, in this world where women get equal rights (which I support by the way) why do women get to choose their formal clothing but men don't?

To me its really sad to see people from many various cultures ALL wearing the same boring suits and ties in formal situations (especially business and politics) as if they had no culture of their own.

To me, the homogenization of world cultures is a bad thing and the tie is symbol of this.

What do you think?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Don't wear a tie! It's their problem not yours. If they don't like it and they have the upper hand, have them show you the door. That is one place you don't need to be and anyone else can just go hang.