Panopticon
The panopticon is a prison design conceived by English philosopher Jeremy Bentham in the 18th century, intended to allow a single guard to observe all inmates without them knowing when they are being watched. This concept relies on the psychological effect of perceived constant surveillance to encourage self-regulation among prisoners. Although never fully realized in Bentham's time, the idea has influenced modern theories of surveillance and control in institutions.
- ▪The panopticon was designed by Jeremy Bentham and derived from the Greek word 'panoptes,' meaning 'all seeing.'
- ▪The architectural design features a central observation tower surrounded by inmate cells, enabling potential surveillance of all prisoners by one guard.
- ▪Bentham intended the panopticon principle to apply not only to prisons but also to hospitals, schools, and asylums.
- ▪The concept relies on the uncertainty of surveillance to induce self-discipline among inmates, even if they are not actually being watched.
- ▪Bentham also proposed that the prison manager should be subject to public oversight, addressing the question of accountability for those in power.
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