We American's had our taste buds programmed by the big breweries. Lager yeast became popular in the 1800's here in the U.S. and it developed a following. Because of the size of the market,big brewers try to develop styles that will appeal to the largest group. The blander beers lend themselves to "having more than one" as the ad used to say. You can have three or four Buds and feel room for more where you would feel full with other brews.

This also contributes to higher rates of alcholism.

I would also say that cost is involved - American brewers use less hops and add rice to the beer to keep costs down. That is why a 6 pack of microbrews cost substantially more than Bud.

As for "thick and chewy", you would be surprised that many of the darker brews actually have less calories and less alchol.

Ron