Portfolio Task 1- Panopticism

Choose an example of one aspect of contemporary culture that is, in your opinion, panoptic. Write an explanation of this, in approximately 200-300 words, employing key Foucauldian language, such as 'Docile Bodies' or 'self-regulation, and using not less than 5 quotes from the text.

Based on Jeremy Bentham’s panoptic prison (described by the French philosopher Michael Foucault as a “reverse….dungeon”), Panopticism is the idea of constantly being observed. Modern society today cannot function without Panopticism as it enforces control.

For example, security cameras/ CCTV is a contemporary example of Panopticism. You can just be out on a shopping trip and you will more than likely be captured by camera. Foucault suggested: “he is seen but he does not see; he is the object of information.” “Object of information” meaning in this context that the store owner will watch the security tapes and find out if you steal.

Furthermore, the cameras do not even have to be real: you will still be aware of the cameras and aware that there is a possibility that you are being monitored while in the store. You are “constantly visible” and therefore you do not steal in case you are caught on camera. The cameras are controlling your every movement supporting Foucault’s idea that “visibility is a trap”.

Security cameras offer a form of protection to society- what is caught on camera is fact, solid evidence that cannot be questioned. I believe that it’s power to “perfectly individualise” is a “guarantee of order” in contemporary culture.