Socialism Vs Capitalism Flashcards
Introduction
Represents capitalism (profit over people)
Inspector embodies socialism advocating social responsibility
Promotes socialism as the moral alternative
A.M.H.T.M.H.O.B
A man has to mind his own business
The assertive, capitalist mantra reflects Birling’s belief in individualism over community
Priestley uses this to critique capitalism’s disregard for collective welfare, contrasting it with socialist ideals
B.T.G.A.C.L.T.P
But these girls aren’t cheap labour - they’re people
The humanising contrast between “cheap labour” and “people” reflects Sheila’s rejection of capitalist exploitation
Priestley uses Sheila to symbolise the younger generation’s shift towards social awareness and moral accountability.
I.W.W.A.R.F.E…I.W.B.V.A
If we were all responsible for everything…it would be very awkward
The dismissive and absurd logic highlight Birling’s capitalist detachment, mocking shared responsibility.
Priestley uses irony here to expose capitalism’s failure to address the interconnectedness of society.
W.A.M.O.O.B.W.A.R.F.E
We are members of one body, we are responsible for eachother
The metaphor “one body” conveys socialist unity, stressing that society thrives only when all individuals are valued
Priestley presents this as his central message, advocating for collectivism as a necessity.
Y.L.M.B.L.Y.O.N.B.IC
You lot may be letting yourselves off nicely but I can’t
Eric’s remorse signals a rejection of capitalist denial and a turn towards socialist accountability.
Priestley uses Eric to show how socialist values require individual moral responsibility
I.C.J.A.T.R.M.T.W.C.O.Y.G
It came just at the right moment, that was clever of you, Gerald
The congratulatory tone reveals the capitalist obsession with appearances
Priestley uses this to highlight how capitalism prioritises manipulation over genuine responsibility.
T.W.B.T.I.F.A.B.A.A
They will be taught in fire and blood and anguish
The apocalyptic triplet warns of the violent consequences of unchecked capitalism
Priestley suggests that without embracing socialism, society will be sanctioned through suffering
