Student-Based Performance Incentives

Do they work?  According to a majority of the research, as well as teachers who responded to my discussion board post, the answer is a resounding no.  I am truly interested in the research that lies before me.  I am confused as to why incentives have not panned out to be more effective in the educational arena.  We live in an incentive-based culture from infancy to beyond retirement.  We potty train children using incentives.  We use them throughout schools.  We use them as parents to encourage good choices and help around the house.  We use them in base salaries plus commission.  We get frequent flyer miles for using credit cards to make purchases.  Everything is about incentives when it comes to performance.  Why not in the classroom?  If I had the answer, I could be a gazillionaire like Forrest Gump, but I will settle for being a teacher who is trying to find a way to make a difference.  I'm alright with that.