The panopticon is all about one-way visibility and psychological control. It’s a setup where people know they could be watched at any moment but can’t tell for sure when it’s happening. That uncertainty forces them to act as if they’re always being observed, keeping them in check without constant enforcement.

Physically, it’s a circular structure with a central watchtower. The observer in the tower has a clear view of everyone, but the people being watched can’t see inside the tower. Since they never know when they’re under surveillance, they start self-regulating their behavior to avoid consequences.

This idea isn’t just about prisons—it applies everywhere. Security cameras, online data tracking, workplace monitoring—same principle. The possibility of being watched is often enough to make people comply. It’s an efficient system of control that works without force, just the fear of being seen.