In the play An Inspector Calls Priestley presents Mr Birling as a businessman who has had several successes over the years and who has been active in politics local as Mayor of Brumley, although it becomes apparent as the show progresses that Mr Birling has very little regard for the local community, preferring to adhere to capitalist philosophies. Mr Birling is used as a symbol of a typical capitalist, breadwinner, married to a woman of a higher social class and director of a company who describes himself as a "stubborn businessman". Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Birling sees himself as the pinnacle of power, attempting to impose his acquired power through status on the Inspector, pompously claiming to be “a town councilor for years” and “Mayor for two years”. Furthermore, he tries to intimidate the inspector by telling him that the police chief is his “old friend”. Furthermore, he considers himself entitled to do whatever he thinks is appropriate, whether right or not. For example, when the inspector asks him why he refused to give the girls more money, he responds in a "surprised" manner, asking "Did you say why?", suggesting that Mr Birling usually exercises his authority mercilessly and has become accustomed to being obeyed without question like most capitalists, Birling continues to try to climb the social ladder, becoming richer and more influential, while the lower classes remain poor and powerless. This can be seen in the marriage of Sheila and Gerald, who comes from a family of higher social status. Birling continually tries to impress Gerald and his family by purchasing "exactly the same port" as his father. Furthermore, he is “sure that Sheila will make (Gerald) happy just as he will make her happy.” Interestingly, Birling puts Gerald's happiness before Sheila's, which implies that he puts Gerald before his daughter. Birling also points out that there is a good chance of him receiving a knighthood - something he knows will impress Lady Croft, confirmed by Gerald, who says she will be "delighted". The marriage itself is an attempt to move up the social ladder, as connections with the Croft family would lead to greater opportunities for Birling, particularly when it comes to business expansion. Despite this, Birling believes in the "every man for himself" philosophy, which makes him "incapable of taking any responsibility", highlighting his selfish attitude and lack of concern for others. This introduces the theme of responsibility into the show, especially social responsibility. Unlike Priestly, Mr Birling does not agree with the concept. Priestley sought to use the play to show the extent of corruption in capitalist society and sought to encourage the public to support the poor rather than cast them aside as Mr Birling does. Mr Birling was also portrayed as an upper class ignoramus and a representative of the older generation. who is out of touch with the younger generations. Birling jokes that he doesn't "know what some kids do", referring to the behavior of young people in society, and this forgetfulness seems to extend to his son, as he is unaware of Eric's severe drinking problem, stealing money and having affairs , one of which resulted in an unwanted pregnancy. Birling's ignorance is emphasized when he speaks to Eric, saying "so many of you don't seem to understand today", the use of the general term "you" suggests that Birling does not regard these young people as individuals. There is a clear misunderstanding between the older and older generations,.