Nowadays, one can often hear people complaining about the extensive surveillance they are under. There is a lot of talking going on concering the use or abuse of surveillance. It seems like there is a general fear of a surveillance society but without general understanding or definition of the term as well as its consequences. In order to clarify the impact of surveillance on our society, the paper will start with the definition of „our time“. What does it mean to live in a modern and globalized world? In this respect, a discussion of the often used concepts of 'globalization' and 'modernity' is necessary and unavoidable in order to ensure a common basis for further discussion. The essay will continue with the question whether surveillance is something new to society or if it had been there all the time but developed in accordance to society. When discussing surveillance in a sociological way, one cannot ignore Foucault. Therefore, the paper will examine how Foucault dealt with surveillance, where he saw its merrits and shortcomings. After having established this, the essay will discuss how surveillance is used today as well as the reasons behind it.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Modernity and Globalization
- Defining Modernity
- Disembeddedment of Social Relations
- Trust in Modernity
- Reflexivity in Modernity
- Defining Globalization
- Development of Surveillance and Foucault
- Surveillance in Modernity
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper aims to explore the concept of surveillance in a modern, globalized world. It seeks to understand the significance of surveillance in contemporary society, examining its historical roots and its evolving impact. It analyzes how surveillance has become increasingly prevalent in various aspects of life, and discusses potential consequences for individuals and society as a whole.
- The definition of "our time" and how it relates to the concepts of modernity and globalization.
- The evolution of surveillance practices throughout history, particularly focusing on Foucault's analysis.
- The role and implications of surveillance in a modern, interconnected world.
- The impact of surveillance on social relations, trust, and individual autonomy.
- The ethical and societal challenges posed by the increasing prevalence of surveillance.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This section introduces the concept of surveillance and its relevance in contemporary society. It raises the question of whether surveillance is a new phenomenon or a development within existing social structures. The paper outlines its approach, focusing on the definition of "our time," the concepts of modernity and globalization, and Foucault's perspective on surveillance.
- Modernity and Globalization: This chapter examines the interconnectedness of modernity and globalization, providing definitions and exploring key concepts. It discusses the disembeddedment of social relations, the significance of trust in modern society, and the role of reflexivity in shaping social change. The chapter also provides a broad definition of globalization, emphasizing its transformative nature.
- Development of Surveillance and Foucault: This chapter explores the historical evolution of surveillance practices. It challenges the notion that surveillance is a solely modern phenomenon, citing examples from ancient Egypt and medieval England. The chapter then examines Foucault's perspective on surveillance, highlighting its relationship to power, knowledge, and control.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This paper examines key concepts related to surveillance in a modern, globalized world, including: modernity, globalization, disembeddedment, trust, reflexivity, Foucault, power, knowledge, control, panopticism, surveillance society.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "surveillance society"?
It refers to a society where extensive monitoring of citizens' activities, movements, and data is a central and pervasive feature of daily life.
How did Michel Foucault influence the study of surveillance?
Foucault analyzed surveillance through the concept of the "Panopticon," exploring how being watched (or the possibility of it) serves as a tool for power and social control.
Is surveillance a new phenomenon?
No, the paper argues it has existed throughout history (e.g., in ancient Egypt) but has evolved and intensified alongside modern technology and globalization.
What is the role of trust in a modern surveillance world?
In modern society, social relations are often "disembedded," meaning we must trust abstract systems and surveillance mechanisms instead of personal connections.
How does globalization affect surveillance?
Globalization creates a more interconnected world where data flows across borders, making surveillance more extensive and harder for individuals to escape.
What are the consequences of reflexivity in modernity?
Reflexivity means society constantly examines and changes its own practices based on new information, which often leads to the implementation of more sophisticated surveillance.
- Quote paper
- Bachelor of Arts Esther Schuch (Author), 2007, Surveillance - The big evil of our time?, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/183385
