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A way to describe enticement or promised rewards without satisfaction as a way to get to some useful point or solution. Derived from the use of a carrot on string supported by a stick tied to the neck which is hanging a few inches in front of horse, donkey or mule. This is a way to entice the animal forward. The animal never actually gets to eat the carrot. Implies that the animal, person or country is not too smart and ruled by base instincts or political expediency. Often used incorrectly to describe enticement (the carrot) from the front and threats from the rear (the stick, for beating). Usually in a political context
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