Panopticon
The Panopticon is an architectural concept design for institutional buildings, most commonly associated with prisons. It was developed by the utilitarian philosopher Jeremy Bentham in the late-18th century as a building that would serve as a system of control. The name was derived from the figure in Greek mythology, Panoptes, who was a giant with a hundred eyes.
The form of the panopticon was based around the idea that all the inhabitants (or inmates) of an institution could be monitored by a single central figure (or guard) at all times. While it is impossible for the single figure to observe everyone at once, the idea was that since those under surveillance would not know when they were being observed, they would be incentivised to act as though they were always being observed.
In terms of architecture, Bentham’s drawings proposed a circular structure with individual cells arranged along the external wall. These would face inwards towards a central rotunda or ‘inspection house’ from which the guard would be able to observe all the inmates.
Bentham conceived the panopticon as a suitable concept, not just for prisons, but for buildings such as schools, hospitals, asylums, and so on. Although no true panopticon was ever constructed, the radial concept was very influential on building designers, particularly 19th century prisons (e.g. HM Wandsworth, HM Strangeways, UK). Perhaps the closest example is the Presidio Modelo in Cuba which is now a museum.
Despite the fact that panopticons were never built, Bentham’s concept has become synonymous with theories relating to surveillance, control and security.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.