But one of the first detailed empirical studies, by Peter Katzenstein of Cornell University and Robert Keohane of Princeton University, debunks the idea of a backlash against American companies.

ECONOMIST: American multinationals

Since the president and Republicans are looking for a 35% estate and gift tax rate in 2011, a 45% rate in effect only for this December is not likely to happen, says Andrew Katzenstein, a personal planning attorney with the law firm Proskauer.

FORBES: How The Tax Compromise Might Affect Estate Planning

Messrs Katzenstein and Keohane cite a December 2004 poll, conducted by Global Market Insite, in which thousands of consumers in eight countries (Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Russia, Britain and the United States) were asked two questions about 53 American companies: would they avoid American products because of recent American foreign policy and military action?

ECONOMIST: American multinationals