The idea of the panopticon, as written about by Foucault, can be applied to all societal circumstances which call for power, control, subordinance and obeyance. For example, Foucault called for its use with schoolchildren, madmen and workers. The principle, that is, not the architectural layout, per se. The reason the panopticon functions so successfully (theoretically) is that it requires little actual observation because those being observed take it upon themselves to control their own behavior; they do dot require bars and barbed wire: there is an eternal psychological threat of surveillance, regardless of the actuality of it. Because the subjects of the panopticon believe they are constantly being watched, there is no need for actual surveillance. It has become internalized. Fucking amazing.