Research has not clearly established whether the private sector can provide correctional programs better and at lower cost than the public sector. Some crucial legal questions also need to be addressed. In addition, discussions should focus on policy and symbolic issues. Corrections exist in a system in which symbolism has a major role. Introducing the new incentive of profit into this system could significantly change the nature of decisions in corrections and in criminal justice generally. As long as the social good can be aligned with the profit incentives of the private sector, this movement may benefit corrections. However, abuse is also a possibility. Moreover, private vendors could influence public policy by influencing legislators or other public administrators in areas such as legislation, funding levels, sentencing decisions, offense definitions, and the public's overall fear of crime. 5 reference notes