"But these girls aren't cheap labour - they're people"

• Analysis

  Priestley here gives sheila his socialist message "we are members of one body" echoing the inspectors message that we have to care for each other in the most fundamental way possible Capitalists view people as simply objects to get them higher profits the same as cheap goods but sheila says no we must think of the workers as people
• Writers intention

  Priestley's play was set in 1912 to challenge Sheila's prejudices due to societal expectations. In 1945, society should view "these girls" as women with independent rights and autonomy, this would be possible as all of Priestley's audience had the vote while women worked during WW2.
• Alternative interpretation

  Sheila's language reveals inherent sexism, suggesting that superior members of society, such as the Birlings and Crofts, think they know what is best for "these girls". Due to their immaturity, girls are unable to make the best decisions for themselves . So therefore despite her desire to sympathise, she belittles them as "these girls", suggesting that learning the inspectors message may not be enough.
• Theme - Socialism 


  It marks the beginning of Sheila’s metamorphosis into a character who questions capitalist exploitation, reflecting her growing empathy and alignment with the inspector’s views. This moment signifies Sheila's shift from passive complicity to active moral awareness, setting the foundation for her broader transformation.