Mr Birling Responsibility

Question 1

This quote shows his individualistic and self-centered view, rejecting social responsibility.

Answer 1

“A man has to mind his own business and look after himself and his own family.”

Question 2

Directly refuses to acknowledge his role in Eva Smith’s downfall.

Answer 2

“I can’t accept any responsibility.”

Question 3

This quote dismisses the idea of collective responsibility.

Answer 3

“If we were all responsible for everything that happened to everybody we’d had anything to do with, it would be very awkward, wouldn’t it?”

Question 4

This quote shows that he is more concerned with reputation than the consequences of his actions.

Answer 4

“There’ll be a public scandal—unless we’re lucky.”

Question 5

This quote shows that he ridicules the younger characters for their growing sense of responsibility.

Answer 5

“The famous younger generation who know it all. And they can’t even take a joke.”