It is mediation creed that Americans don't like to bargain.  If they did, there probably wouldn't be mediators or Hollywood agents.

Now the New York Times tells us why.  After World War II, we had a virtual monopoly on consumer goods.  Our negotiation skills took a hike in the woods and never returned.

Anyone who wants to save a few bucks on the purchase of consumer goods without the assistance of a professional negotiator should read today's New York Times article -- For Champions of Haggling, No Price Tag is Sacred.  Advice by Herb Cohen, author of the best seller “You Can Negotiate Anything” below. 

• Make sure it is worth your time. Generally that means only bargain on big-ticket items.
• Don’t fall in love with anything you’re trying to buy — you should care, but not too much.
• Do your homework on comparable prices.
• Offer cash rather than a credit card.
• Remember — you have the power. Money talks, but money can also walk.
  
  Also, keep in mind that the more time a sales representative has invested in a sale, the more he will want to give you a bargain. Mr. Cohen gives the example of trying on three or four suits and deciding on the fifth one.
  
  “They bring in the tailor and the salesman is gleefully writing up the bill. Then I turn to the salesman and say, ‘What kind of tie will you throw in for free?’ ”
  
  It works for free shirts, too.