The "Prison Industrial Complex" refers to the growing relationship between government and private companies in the management and operation of prisons. This system often prioritizes profit over rehabilitation, leading to an increase in incarceration rates and the expansion of prison facilities. Critics argue that this complex perpetuates social inequalities, as marginalized communities are disproportionately affected by harsh sentencing laws and policing practices. The involvement of private corporations in prisons raises concerns about the ethical implications of profiting from incarceration, which can undermine efforts for criminal justice reform and rehabilitation programs.