The Philosophy Behind Banksy’s Art

Banksy frequently explores the idea of surveillance and social control, themes central to the philosophy of Michel Foucault. In One Nation Under CCTV (2007), a child paints graffiti on a wall while being watched by a police officer and a security camera. Foucault’s theory of the panopticon—the idea that constant surveillance enforces compliance without the need for overt oppression—is clearly referenced here. Banksy critiques the illusion of freedom in societies that are in fact tightly monitored and controlled.