In agreeance with the statement, "In Dead Poet's Society, the audience is not given a choice; we are positioned to side with Keating,", there is actually ample evidence that supports this.
In the movie, we the audience take in the drab, boring, strict and unchanging environment that the students live in. .
Keating, is a non-conformist teacher at this school, and there is a huge contrast that seperates him from any of the other teachers.
He is much different from other school staff, he is creative and witty and amuses his students who are both shocked and intrigued by him.
The noticible difference for how the students feel towards Keating is obvious. Keating gains their respect with his liberating teaching style. He aims for the students to reach their highest potential and makes a personal connection with them.
An example of this is when he breaks down the barriers with Todd, the very shy student. Todd feels that he is worth nothing, and is always embarrassed when put on the spot. Keating encourages Todd to come up to the front of the class and on the spot, describe what he sees, in attempt for him to see the poetic genious inside. Todd doesn't want to do it, he is extremely hesistant and at first he says that he sees nothing, but Keating encourages him enough and despite the other students laughing at him, Todd comes up with a unique and brilliant vision as a result.
Keating sparks a passion in the students, a love for the subject that no other teacher has done before.