So when it comes to banishing the bags, it seems opinion is divided on whether a carrot or stick approach works best.

BBC: England

They can range in size from a lima bean to a carrot stick and have a rubbery consistency, causing a squeaking sensation on the teeth when chewed fresh from the factory.

WSJ: Extreme Cheeseheads Choke It Down

"This is the first time the focus has been on education and awareness and redirection to legal and authorized services and not on punitive measures or a carrot-and-stick approach, " she said.

NPR: Music, Movie Industry To Warn Copyright Infringers

Such a plan also gives parents an unobtrusive way to check on their student's academic progress throughout the year--and a carrot is more effective than a stick when urging better performance.

FORBES: College Debts