Foucault's examination of the penal system highlights a transformation in:

Foucault's examination of the penal system emphasizes a transformation in social control mechanisms. He analyzed how the shift from physical punishment and public executions to more subtle forms of discipline reflects broader social changes in power dynamics. In his work, particularly "Discipline and Punish," Foucault discusses how the focus has moved from overt, brutal punishment to more nuanced methods of surveillance and regulation, such as imprisonment, which aim to control individuals' behaviors and thoughts.

This transition illustrates a broader societal change where control is exercised not just through direct actions or violence but through the normalization of behaviors and the internalization of societal norms. Surveillance, discipline, and the categorization of individuals are seen as ways for the state to exert influence and maintain order without relying solely on violent means. This perspective sheds light on the complexities of modern forms of social control and underscores Foucault’s argument about how power operates in society. Understanding this transformation is crucial in the study of sociology as it reveals the interplay between power, knowledge, and societal norms.