Panopticon Revisited: Unraveling the Surveillance Phenomena in “The Matrix” and its Implications for Contemporary Society - A Foucauldian Analysis

Xianda College of Economics and Humanities, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, 200083 China

^* Corresponding author: 20111215@student.xdsisu.edu.cn

Abstract

The impact of power surveillance under Panopticism on society has permeated all aspects of social life, emphasizing the importance of maintaining constant awareness and balancing privacy and rights within a reasonable framework of “surveillance.” The Matrix film series, starting with its release in 1999, to some extent reflects the dark side of technological advancement on human civilization. This article offers valuable insights into Foucault’s theory and establishes connections between the film The Matrix and contemporary society, providing a deeper understanding of the social power dynamics. Through the analysis, it can be observed that for humanity, the centralization of social systems has given way to a techno-totalitarianism, in which subtle forces ensnare individuals, seemingly leaving no one exempt. People now live in this era of “ubiquity” and need to approach it rationally, protecting their rights reasonably. However, further exploration is warranted regarding various aspects of “surveillance” within the social power mechanism. Questions arise regarding the correct perception of oppression and being oppressed under such “surveillance” and the need for a more profound analysis of this phenomenon from a capitalist perspective. By addressing these issues, a comprehensive understanding of Foucault’s proposed mechanisms of power in society can be achieved.