An Inspector Calls: Asking vs Taking

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Questions and Answers

What is the significance of the Inspector's emphasis on 'ask' prior to 'take' in the context of social responsibility?

It highlights the importance of a balanced approach, where asking and taking are equally valued in society.
It underscores the moral imperative of prioritizing sharing and collective responsibility over individual gain and exploitation. (correct)
It suggests that individuals should always prioritize their own needs before considering the needs of others.
It implies that the working class should take what they need.

How does the concept of 'taking' relate to the historical context of the Edwardian era, as suggested in the content?

Taking was seen as a virtue, which would improve an individual's social mobility.
Taking was viewed as a socialist approach.
Taking, with its connotations of stealing, contradicts the religious moral foundation of the time where religion condemns theft. (correct)
Taking was aligned with the religious values of the time, which supported individual wealth accumulation.

Which political ideology aligns with the Inspector's message of communal values and collective responsibility, as an alternative to individualistic desire?

Capitalism
Socialism (correct)
Monarchism
Feudalism

What is the most likely consequence of prioritizing 'taking' over 'asking' within a society, according to the content?

<p>Exacerbated inequality and perpetuated poverty cycles (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the play, how does Eva Smith's situation exemplify the theme of class conflict related to 'asking' versus 'taking'?

<p>Eva Smith represents the working class, who must 'ask' for fair treatment from a privileged upper class that often 'takes' advantage without question. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

'Ask' vs. 'Take'

Prioritizing 'ask' before 'take' emphasizes the importance of sharing resources over individual gain, promoting collective responsibility.

Social Responsibility

Exploitation and greed negatively impact society, creating disparities and perpetuating the cycle of poverty.

Class Conflict

The working class often needs to 'ask' for fair treatment, while the upper class exploits without questioning their actions.

Biblical condemnation of 'taking'

'To take' carries connotations of stealing, a notion condemned in biblical teachings.

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Socialism's View

Socialism returns to society's moral foundations, emphasizing communal values and collective responsibility over individualistic desire.

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Study Notes

The Inspector positions himself as a moral compass, questioning Mr. Birling's capitalist views.
The Inspector uses the syntax of "ask" before "take" to highlight the importance of social responsibility.
"Asking" and sharing resources is presented as vital for communal responsibility, contrasting with the capitalist idea of "taking" for oneself.
"Taking" can worsen inequality and continue poverty for lower classes.

Theme Connection:

This connects to the theme of social responsibility, where greed and exploitation are detrimental to society.
There is a class conflict, where the working class ("Eva Smith") must "ask" for fair treatment.
The upper class takes advantage without question.

Writer's Viewpoint/Historical Context:

"To take" implies stealing, which is condemned in biblical teachings as a mortal sin.
Religion was the basis of morality in the Edwardian era.
Capitalist ideals often ignore these teachings, and focus on personal gain over ethics.

Alternative

Socialism can be seen as restoring society's moral foundations.
Socialism emphasizes communal values and collective responsibility over individual desire.