Abstract
ANALYSIS OF DEAD POETS SOCIETY IN TERMS OF VALUES EDUCATION
The aim of this study is to analyze Dead Poets Society (1989), directed by Peter Weir, in terms of its contribution to students’ moral development and internalization of social values within the framework of teaching ethics. Set in a success-oriented boarding school in 1959, the film portrays the influence of John Keating, an unconventional teacher who encourages students to break away from traditional molds and discover their own voices. Keating’s teaching of Carpe Diem—“Seize the Day”—triggers the inner transformation of the students and directs them toward independent thinking. The film highlights values such as individual freedom, responsibility, courage, resistance to authority, and critical thinking. The study employs the qualitative research method of document analysis, conducting thematic coding through an examination of the film’s characters, plot, symbols, and dialogues. The film’s content was evaluated under the categories of “values in teaching” “character and individual development,” “work and professional ethics,” and “social values.” The findings indicate that the film particularly emphasizes the values of freedom and individuality while simultaneously questioning traditional notions of authority. In the educational context, the film offers significant implications for teaching ethics and values education.
Keywords
Dead Poets Society, values education, analysis of the film, teaching ethics