Republicans argue that even though the bulk of Bush's tax cut won't be felt for years, the entire package would have an immediate, positive psychological effect on the markets and consumers -- if Congress passes it.

CNN: Democrats say Bush's comments helped bring downturn

And while that may sound good for bargain hunters, and perhaps even more importantly for Japan's ageing households receiving fixed pension incomes, if prices continue to fall for a prolonged period, it actually has a negative psychological and business effect, some economists argue.

BBC: Q&A: Bank of Japan's inflation target

Such acts are difficult for the authorities to prevent, and images of them can have a powerful psychological effect among sympathisers.

ECONOMIST: China��s restive Tibetan regions