Arthur Birling

• "The Germans don't want war. Nobody wants war."

  This quote shows Arthur’s naive confidence in his understanding of international affairs. It highlights his shortsightedness and arrogance, as he dismisses the possibility of conflict despite the looming danger of World War I.
• "A man has to make his own way – has to look after himself – and his family too, of course."

  This quote reflects Arthur’s capitalist and individualistic worldview. It underscores his belief in self-reliance and the pursuit of personal success, often at the expense of collective responsibility.
• "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?"

  Arthur’s dismissal of collective responsibility reveals his moral blindness. He refuses to acknowledge the interconnectedness of society and the impact of individual actions on others.