Panopticon
/pænˈɒp.tɪ.kən/noun
A circular prison design with cells arranged around a central observation tower.
Did you know?The concept of the Panopticon was invented by philosopher Jeremy Bentham in the late 18th century, symbolizing the ultimate surveillance mechanism that influences our ideas of privacy even today.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
πανόπτης
“All-seeing or all-observing, from 'pan' (all) + 'optis' (seeing).”
18th Century
English
Panopticon
“Coined by Jeremy Bentham to describe his innovative prison design allowing constant observation.”
19th Century
English
Panopticism
“The social theory evolving from the Panopticon, relating to modern surveillance practices.”
Modern English
English
Panopticon
“Used metaphorically to discuss surveillance society, extending beyond prisons to encompass societal control.”
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