Panopticon
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Panopticon
The Panopticon, in the context of architecture, is a type of building designed in a circular pattern to enable an observer, situated in the center of the structure, to have a comprehensive, unobstructed view of the entire surrounding area. It was first conceived by British philosopher and social theorist Jeremy Bentham in the 18th century, as a means of controlling public behavior and preventing crime, with the intention that the threat of being watched would deter people from breaking the law. The Panopticon has been adapted and used in various forms, such as prisons, hospitals, factories, and schools, as a way to limit the freedom of movement of those under surveillance and to ensure that those in charge can monitor and regulate their activities.
Surveillance, Control, Overseeing, Monitoring, Power.
CITATION : "Michael Adams. 'Panopticon.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/panopticon?E=236806 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"
Panopticon
Masonry architecture is a field of design that has been used for centuries and is still widely in use today. The panopticon is a type of masonry architecture that was developed in the 18th century by English philosopher and social theorist Jeremy Bentham. It is a type of circular building that has a central observation tower surrounded by a series of prison cells. The design of the panopticon encourages prisoners to remain in their cells and allows the guards to observe them without being seen, thus creating an environment of constant surveillance and control. This type of structure has been used for many different purposes, including prisons, factories, schools, and hospitals.
Privacy, Surveillance, Control, Authority, Discipline.
Panopticon on Design+Encyclopedia
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