Welton define tradition as honouring the beliefs and values of previous generations, to maintain a safe and submissive society, which does not question previous decisions. Welton believe that this tradition will instil respect and uphold a respectable reputation and status in society. An example of this is evident when Mr. Nolan, the school principal says to John Keating; ‘the curriculum here is set; it has been proven it works. If you question it, then what’s to stop them doing the same?’ Keating replies; ‘I always thought the point of education was to think f

‘Sucking the marrow out of life doesn’t mean choking on the bone. There’s a time for daring and a time for caution and a wise man knows which one is called for’. Keating is teaching his students to learn to assess their errors and foibles and from this they can understand the responsibilities, duties and need for self–control. Keating is talking about learning to recognise your limits and that your actions should go only to the extent that you feel is right. Keating’s way of disciplining his students differ from Welton’s because he teaches them that there should only be one power and authority over one’s life and it should be; yourself.

Welton uses Discipline as a tool for controlling undesirable behaviour. They achieve this through punishment, guilt or physical, emotional and psychological intimidation, to ensure that students act in a socially acceptable manner. We see evidence of this when Mr. Nolan says to Charlie Dalton; ‘If you think Mr. Dalton, that you’re the first to get thrown, out of this school, think again. Others have had similar notions and have failed just as surely you will fail. Assume the position’ Mr. Nolan believes that if Charlie is physically disciplined enough for a long period of time, he will change his mind and not stand by his beliefs. When Nolan says, ‘others have failed just as surely as you will’ we see that Welton’s way of enforcing discipline teaches students that they are inferior and that they do not have control over their own life. Through this physical intimidation students are repressed to the extent that many of them feel powerless and cannot stand up for their views and values. Welton dictates the students’ actions and values and if the students choose to rebel against Welton’s decisions then they will be punished. As a result of this punishment students are too afraid to speak their minds for fear of isolation and being ostracized.

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