The prison, school and hospital structures were highly inspired by the ‘Panopticon’. It solved the problems of surveillance faced by doctors, penologists, industrialists and educators.
“Each comrade becomes an overseer.”
Was architecture the key solution to all these problems?
Arrangement of space is to be used for political and economic ends was a new challenge at the end of the 18th century. The discussion between Perrot, Barou and Foucault highlights and critiques Bentham’s ideologies. It is interesting how they were put forth, perceived and implemented during the French Revolution which played a crucial role in helping Bentham become a “Citizen of France”.
“Bentham is at once close to this Roussseauian notion, and the complete opposite.”
Doctors raised four fundamental problems: the problem of locations, the problem of coexistence, the problem of housing and the problem of displacements. It is very astonishing to see the various issues which turned out to be a big concern like the fear of dark space in the 18th century. The problem of prisons was a high priority in the 17th century evident in Howard’s appraisal of prisons. I have gained in-depth understanding of the importance of gaze and what disparate meanings it can have in different situations.
Panopticon keeps focusing on ‘gaze’ through different means and how it was used as an influence for the construction of other structures aimed at solving a major issue. This concept doesn’t let power rest in the sole hands of an individual.
“Power is no longer substantially identified with a particular individual who possesses it or exercises it by right of birth. In the Panoptican, everyone is watched, according to his position within the system, by all or by certain others.”