First of all, this latest United snafu certainly makes for entertaining news.  And if United has not yet issued orders at every level and location to avoid ANY aggravating and news-worthy incidents, then they are stupider than I think.

Second, there is plenty of blame to assign.  Let's start with corporate policy and culture.  Yes, all big airlines are more alike than different, but the differences matter.  I was a very frequent business and personal flyer several years ago in Houston and experienced the Continental to United change, which seemed mostly for the worse.  I have also experienced plenty of international travel on foreign carriers.  Whether real or forced, the cabin crews, especially on Asian airlines, put most US crews to shame in terms of friendliness and helpfulness.  Why?  Grumpy staff?  Unions?  Corporate policy (again)?

Finally, I will point at us.  We say we want good service, but refuse to pay for it.  Most Americans buy the cheapest tickets.  And then complain.