The term "Panopticon" refers to a design for a prison proposed by the philosopher Jeremy Bentham in the late 18th century. The concept features a circular building with a central observation tower, allowing a single guard to monitor all inmates without them knowing when they are being watched. This design aims to promote self-regulation among prisoners, as they would feel constantly observed. The Panopticon has influenced various fields, including sociology and surveillance studies. It symbolizes the relationship between power and visibility, illustrating how surveillance can shape behavior in society. The idea has been expanded upon by theorists like Michel Foucault, who explored its implications in modern social control.