Foucalt describes the transition that occured between the ways that power is displayed. Foucalt describes a brutal execution in 18th century France. The condemned is quartered by horses and then has his entrails drawn. He is also brutally burned. The event is a public spectacle and it displays what happens to those who oppose the laws of the state. This varies greatly from the following centuries where the public spectacle of execution went away, and executions were made swiftly and in private. Eventually, Focault describes the world of the panopticon and how eventually the state removed the sight of punishment from the public. The spectacle of punishment allowed for people to become sympathetic to the condemned, to respect or see bravery in facing a horrible death. This show of force was changed to a rigorous disciplinary routine and constant surveillance. This in effect dismembers the individuality of a person rather than dismembering the body itself. Essentially it removes all nobility and bravery present in punishment. Focault describes this transition because of its importance in forming the panopticon. With constant surveillance replacing brutal reprisal, the modern form of punishment and discipline which Foucalt is so concerned with came about.

Panopticism is a way of saying all seeing. Many examples of literature come to mind when thinking of the disciplinary styles. JRR Tolkien’s eye of Sauron, Orwell’s Big Brother, and the spectacles on the billboard from the Great Gatsby. To maintain discipline among a populace, the Panopticon is the ultimate tool.

“anyone, chosen almost at random can operate the machine:” – 202

There needs not be one central operator or agency that is concerned with keeping an eye on everyone at once. People are expected to monitor the behavior of one another. This is very much reminiscent of 1984, where children are taught to spy on their own parents to serve a “Big Brother” who despite being non-existent is everywhere at once.

“But the Panopticon was also a laboratory; it could be used as a machine to carry out experiments; to alter behavior, to train or correct individuals.” 203

Ultimately, the Panopticon can be used on the populace. An instrument that allows people to affect the opinions and actions of people using mainly implicit rhetoric. In this sense we are monitered constantly, and by ourselves. This tool could ultimately eliminate the idea of a prison, by making inmates of everyone.

Confusions:

The only confusion I have is how the Panopticon manifests itself. Is it an intentional creation, like a prison or like barracks? Or is it something that comes around naturally.