An example of everyday panopticism would be when people auto police themselves. Whether or not the police are present people still abide by the rules. Drivers are mentally trained to make a complete stop when they see a stop sign or drive at a certain speed. They are aware that if they break the traffic laws, the consequences follow. It can occur while an individual is shopping. We know that we shouldn’t steal store items because not only people are watching us but surveillance cameras are too.
We also learn to self discipline ourselves when it comes down to social networking. The social media is very important to many individuals. The reason being is because people are able to reconnect with long lost friends, share pictures/videos, and use social media for entertainment. We visibly share news with others whether it’s through a Facebook status, a tweet, or a picture thru Instagram. Thru the social media we are able to express ourselves but sometimes we should be careful of what we post because of the fact that everyone is able to see it no matter if it’s public or private. What we share in the media can disgust, offend, amuse, or even threat the crowd. This reminds me of an article that was trending on my Twitter newsfeed on a Thursday night. Alyssa Douglas, a 16 year-old teen from Ohio, tweeted “someone should assassinate President Barack Obama ASAP”. An investigation was ordered because it was seen as a potential threat. It came to the point where Alyssa Douglas and her family had to meet with Secret Services the following day. Her reputation, her chance of getting a job, and her life took a wrong turn for the worst all because of a tweet.
We are aware that we are supposed to behave in a certain way while social networking. On a personal level, I always think twice before posting a picture or a status because once it’s posted online it will forever be there. What if my boss sees this? What if my little brother shows my mother my check-in at the bar? This creates a discipline on your actions, thoughts, and behavior. If your boss was to see a Facebook picture rolling a blunt full of weed then you shouldn’t be surprised when he dismisses you the next day. It is important to be cautious about what we share in the social media. So before you post something online take a second and think about it because you never know who’s at the other end of the computer watching it.