“It’s my duty to keep labour costs down.” (Mr. Birling)
Birling twists the word “duty” to mean profit. In 1912, there were no minimum wage laws. To a 1945 audience, this “duty” represents the exploitation that Socialist reforms like the Trade Unions were designed to stop.
“Go and look for the father of the child. It’s his responsibility.” (Mrs. Birling)
Mrs. Birling uses “responsibility” as a weapon to shift blame away from her charity committee. Reflects the 1912 double standard where men could be reckless while women dealt with the social shame. It highlights the hypocrisy of the upper class.
“Public men, Mr. Birling, have responsibilities as well as privileges.” (Inspector)
A direct hit on 1912 corruption where “public men” used their influence for personal gain. This resonated with the 1945 desire for more accountable government.
“We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other.” (Inspector)
Ultimate socialist manifesto. By 1945, the UK had just voted for the Labour Party to create the NHS and Welfare State, making this the most important line for the audience.
“A man has to make his own way – look after himself and his own.” (Mr. Birling)
Suggests that a person’s only duty is to their own family and profit. In 1912, Laissez-faire economics allowed the rich to ignore the poor. A 1945 audience, having just built a collective war effort, would see this as the selfish attitude that led to the war.
