panopticon etymology

Etymology:

Panopticon is derived from two Greek words:

  • Pan (παν): "All"
  • Opticon (οπτικός): "To see"

Meaning:

The word "panopticon" literally means "all-seeing" or "all-observing".

Origin:

The concept of the panopticon was first proposed by the English philosopher Jeremy Bentham in the late 18th century. Bentham's panopticon was a circular prison design where inmates could be constantly observed by guards from a central watchtower without being able to see the guards.

Bentham believed that this design would foster discipline and order among the inmates, as they would be aware that they were under constant surveillance. The panopticon has been used as a model for prison design and other institutions where control and surveillance are desired.

Metaphorical Usage:

In modern usage, the term "panopticon" has taken on a metaphorical meaning, referring to any situation where individuals feel they are being constantly observed or controlled, such as:

  • Surveillance technologies, like CCTV cameras
  • Social media, where users' activities can be monitored and tracked
  • Hierarchies or power structures where individuals are constantly aware of the watchful eyes of authority

panopticon relate terms

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  • ferocity

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  • myopia

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  • necropsy

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  • ocular

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  • oculist

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  • oculus

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  • oeillade

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  • ophthalmo

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  • optic

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  • optician

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  • optics

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  • jeopardy

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