Pay attention to mass torts litigation and it's hard not to notice a certain feedback loop between Johnson & Johnson's products liability docket and the tort reform agenda of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber likes to use real-world stories of lawsuits run amok to fuel its advocacy, and it's got no shortage of examples, thanks to Johnson & Johnson. The group often points to J&J cases when it lobbies to tighten venue rules, limit plaintiffs bar advertising and curb third-party litigation funding.

Meanwhile J&J raises alarm bells about the very same issues in its court fights, echoing the Chamber's agenda and creating courtroom sideshows that air the group's pet issues but have little apparent effect in those suits.