It's an interesting topic, Sannah. I don't think that this preeminent need to gripe is unique to the U.S. population, though we Americans do have an inflated sense of entitlement.

When I get those kinds of emails, I look to see if the sender is just pushing it along, or if he/she is actually doing something about the problem/issue. To me, if one wants to complain about something, he/she should also plan to do something about it.

Communication is a mighty tool and, in my opinion, underused and misunderstood by too many people. When we want change, it is in our power to foster that change. If we choose to "ignore it so it will go away", or merely complain about it, we are doing nothing to improve the situation. So, I say, shut up and do something proactive, or keep your emails to yourself!