Social responsibility

Question 1

Introduction

Answer 1

Inspector serves as a moral voice

Younger generation demonstrates potential for change

Explores the contrasting attitudes of Inspector/ Birlings

Question 2

A.M.H.T.M.H.O.B

Answer 2

A man has to mind his own business

This statement reflects Mr. Birling’s capitalist ideology of individualism, which denies any moral obligation to others
Priestley contrasts this self-serving attitude with the Inspector’s view that social responsibility is paramount for societal progress.

Question 3

I.W.W.A.R.F.E…I.W.B.V.A

Answer 3

If we were all responsible for everything… it would be very awkward

This dismissive statement reflects the older generation’s desire to avoid accountability
Priestley uses this to highlight the moral disengagement of the upper class, who reject the idea of interconnectedness

Question 4

Y.M.B.S.T.H.B.J.O.H

Answer 4

You might be said to have been jealous of her

This line suggests Sheila prioritised jealousy over compassion for Eva Smith’s plight.
Priestley uses this to contrast Sheila’s earlier selfishness with her eventual moral awakening

Question 5

W.A.M.O.O.B.W.A.R.F.E

Answer 5

We are members of one body. We are responsible for eachother

The metaphor of the “body” advocates for interconnectedness, rejecting the selfish individualism of the upper class
Priestley presents this as the central moral lesson of the play, urging society to embrace collectivism over isolation.

Question 6

M.O.E.S.A.J.S

Answer 6

Millions of Eva smiths and John smiths

This hyperbolic statement emphasises the systemic nature of social injustice, suggesting that Eva’s death is part of a broader pattern of class-based exploitation.
Priestley uses this to call for a shift towards greater responsibility for social welfare, especially the working class.

Question 7

I.D.R.H.T

Answer 7

I didn’t remember… hellish thing

Eric’s admission reveals his sense of guilt, highlighting the psychological burden of unacknowledged responsibility.
Priestley uses Eric to demonstrate that social responsibility cannot be denied.

Question 8

Y.L.M.B.L.Y.O.N.B.I.C

Answer 8

You lot may be letting yourselves out nicely but I can’t

Eric’s frustration contrasts his family’s moral disengagement with his own sense of personal guilt
This line highlights how the younger characters embrace social responsibility but the older generation resists.

Question 9

T.W.B.T.I.F.A.B.A.A

Answer 9

They will be taught in fire and blood and anguish

The apocalyptic tone of “fire and blood” suggest that the failure to recognise social responsibility will lead to societal collapse.
Priestley warns that without collective responsibility society will face violent consequences.