Light

Surveillance

Definition

Surveillance involves close observation or monitoring of individuals or groups for various purposes such as gathering intelligence, maintaining security, or exercising control.

Analogy

Imagine surveillance as a high-tech security camera system installed in a school, constantly monitoring the hallways to ensure safety and prevent unauthorized activities.

Related terms

Panopticon: A concept introduced by philosopher Jeremy Bentham, describing a prison design where inmates are constantly under surveillance from a central observation tower without knowing if they're being watched at any given moment.

Mass Surveillance: The widespread collection and analysis of data on individuals or groups, often conducted by governments or corporations for various purposes such as national security or targeted advertising.

Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV): Video surveillance systems comprised of cameras that transmit signals to specific monitors, commonly used in public spaces, businesses, and residential areas for security purposes.