The Panopticon and The Hunger Games

Jeremy Bentham Creator of the Panopticon English philosopher Published idea in 1785

What is the Panopticon? Idea for a prison Allows prison guards to observe all prisoners without the prisoners knowing whether they’re being watched or not. “Pan” = all, everything “Optic” = seeing, eyes, vision. “Panopticon” = a place where someone can see everything.

What does it look like and how does it work ? Hundreds of cells in a circle around one central guard tower. Prisoners can’t see guard, but all cells are visible. If prisoners don’t know whether or not they’re being watched, they assume they’re always being watched. Saves money. Creates a sense of fear and paranoia in prisoners.

Michel Foucault Modern French philosopher Applied the philosophy behind the Panopticon to explain why people act certain ways in society.

How is society like the Panopticon? Foucault thought the Panopticon is a metaphor for society. People behave correctly, act morally because they’re afraid of being caught and punished. Security cameras Police presence Fear of being reported by neighbors.

How does this apply to The Hunger Games? The Capitol started the Hunger Games to remind Panem of its absolute power and control. Tributes in the Hunger Games must conform to Capitol expectations because the camera is always on them. Reminds citizens that the Capitol has constant surveillance over Districts. Reinforces Capitol’s power Creates sense of fear and paranoia.

Youtube clip