Capitalism

Question 1

But the way some of these cranks talk and write now, you’d think everybody has to look after everybody else

Answer 1

He patronises socialists, calling them cranks and he denounces the very ideals of socialism, by implying that the entire system is weak. He says that it degrades human individuality, suggesting that socialism requires us all to live like one enormous machine with no individual rights

Question 2

The Titanic–she sails next week […] unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable

Answer 2

Use of dramatic irony. His statement conveys the ignorance of the capitalist upper class. Emphasis on how it’s “unsinkable” due to the repeat of the word illustrating how he strongly believes this.

Question 3

Sharp ring of the doorbell

Answer 3

The Inspector’s arrival stops Mr Birling from continuing his ridiculous speech. Socialism is overtaking capitalism

Question 4

I’ve learnt in the good hard school of experience – that a man has to mind his own business

Answer 4

This again shows how he thinks he knows it all, as he teaches younger generation who will succeed him, evident by his use of the term ‘youngsters’. It portrays his arrogance and capitalist views

Question 5

Well, it’s my duty to keep labour costs down

Answer 5

He makes it seem as if he has a moral obligation to stay rich as if capitalism, is what keeps society together. Socialists believe progress is achieved through cooperation whereas capitalists believe that progress is achieved through competition.