One of the key aspects of Foucault’s discussion on Panopticism is Surveillance and Visibility. It has been embedded in our society through numerous different technologies
In contemporary urban environments, surveillance cameras are often in all of our presences, installed in public spaces, workplaces, and even private residences. These cameras serve as modern-day equivalents of the central watchtower in Bentham’s Panopticon, providing an atmosphere of constant visibility and potential inspection. Individuals navigating these surveilled spaces often find themselves adjusting their behavior in response to the presence of cameras, whether consciously or subconsciously. This adjustment reflects a form of self-regulation born out of the awareness of being watched. This is a fundamental aspect of panoptic control. Beyond physical surveillance, digital technologies have ushered in new forms of panopticism. The internet, social media platforms, and digital communication channels have become arenas where individuals willingly disclose personal information and engage in self-presentation. However, these spaces are also subject to surveillance and monitoring, whether by government agencies, corporations, or other users. The knowledge that one’s online activities may be observed and recorded leads to a form of self censorship and conformity, mirroring the discipline described by Foucault in his discussion of panopticism. Moreover, digital surveillance extends beyond mere observation to encompass the collection and analysis of vast amounts of personal data. Tracking cookies, algorithms, and data mining techniques enable the profiling and categorization of individuals based on their online behavior, preferences, and demographics. This is why we have things such as For you pages, explore pages, etc. All of these pages are based on what we like and share. This can limit or share with us news which may or can alter our views. We can be limited to certain data due to what we interact with. In conclusion, the prevalence of surveillance technologies in modern society reflects the principles of panopticism, fostering a culture of self-regulation, conformity, and control through constant surveillance and visibility. Whether in physical or digital spaces, the awareness of being watched influences our behavior and shapes the contours of contemporary social interaction.