2018 Student Research Conference:
31st Annual Student Research Conference

What Remains When the World Ends: A Content Analysis of Cultural Values Reflected in Dystopian Film


Alexandra E. Vietor
Dr. Anton Daughters, Faculty Mentor

In recent years, there has been a rise in dystopian fiction, which is especially notable within the Western movie industry. The movies a society produces both shape and are shaped by that culture. With this in mind, a qualitative content analysis of 18 dystopian films was conducted to examine the narrative elements of each film as they relate to common themes that characterize the dystopian genre.  Analyses determine that the themes of violence, the environment, technology, class, and gender seem most prevalent and reflect characteristics and beliefs of Western society over time. These movies not only call upon their audience to reflect on their society as it is in the present, but to envision a better future and act to make that a reality.

Keywords: dystopia, dystopian fiction, qualitative method, content analysis, film analysis

Topic(s):Sociology
Anthropology

Presentation Type: Oral Paper

Session: 211-4
Location: VH 1236
Time: 10:15

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