In a critique of the modernist movement in architecture, Peter Jones recounts the cultural and historic events that created the western surveillance society and the architecture that supports it. With a tradition of favoring the sense of sight that stretches back to ancient Greeks, successive waves of western metaphysical thought and philosophy built on or created a fear of the unknown, dark, and uncertain corners of the world. The modernist movement applied the same emphasis on logic and sight into clear forms that drive ambiguity away. Using Bentham’s Panopticon as an early manifestation of architecture that uses surveillance to maintain power and control of prisoners, the author compares more contemporary architecture that uses the same concept. Features like glass and open floor plans were universally used by modernist as symbolic of collectivism, freedom, and providing a healthier light filled space for the people. However lofty and democratic the goal, Jones explains how in practice they, like in the example of a factory, give more control of the masses over to the people with the power.

With a full glass façade, the Jaqua Center at U of O would certainly get the stamp of approval from modernist like Van der Rohe. As the user approaches the building, there is a sense of hostility as you navigate the abrupt corner steps that have no handrails. One becomes keenly aware of the busy intersection on Agate and E. 13^th with ample people and vehicles that would have a clear view if there was a misstep. Approaching the doors, panic sets in when they are not easily identifiable in the sleek façade that has stripped away the “unnecessary” door handles. A mechanical door opens by a button, again the user feels eyes on them while they try and decide if they need to scan a school id to even enter. Once seated at Camp 13 Café, there is no sense of privacy as one can see directly in and out of the transparent walls. The building is open to the public, but by using modernist architectural principles that increase surveillance, the building communicates that the space is for the gaining and keeping athletes (a huge contributor to the school profit and power).

An all glass facade allows users to see outside while also allowing others to see in.