Assignment:
1. What questions does this film raise about the growth and transmission of human knowledge? In particular, what roles do tradition and habituation (conditioning) play in the moral instruction of young people? Does the film have anything to say to the question, "How do we learn to be good people?"
2. In the course of the film, the students at Welton Academy are introduced to the four pillars of Welton. They are tradition, honor, discipline, and excellence. According to Headmaster Nolan, "These pillars are the very foundations of Welton Academy. They hold together this school and they will hold together each and every one of you as you go through life." Does the film Dead Poets Society reinforce or undermine the importance of these virtues in achieving and sustaining knowledge?
3. Does Dead Poets Society have anything to say about philosophical issues like the mind-body problem, personal identity, or freedom and determinism? Does the philosophy of education on view at Welton Academy involve presuppositions about these issues?
4. What is the relationship between and truth and power suggested by the film?
5. In your view, is Professor Keating a hero or a villain? In other words, does he lead his students closer to the truth or away from it? Explain your answer.
6. What is the role of nature in this film? Does nature have anything to say to questions of moral development and ethics?
7. Is there a Romantic (feelings matter) or Existentialist (choices that are true to you or authentic, are essential) theme in this film? What is it? Do you have sympathy for the Romanticism or Existentialism suggested by the film or do you find it troubling? In other words, does the world need more "Mr. Keatings" or fewer? Explain your answer.