One of the main elements in socialist doctrine is the notion of collectivity. It calls for social rather than private ownership, and promotes community as a way of achieving an equal society where there are no hierarchies. Whilst the political landscape of Britain was changing drastically during the Second World War, with the Labour Party ascending to government in 1945, many still opposed the ideals of socialism in favour of the previously Conservative government. Indications of the nation’s desire for reform through the years leading up to this election provide a springboard from which playwrights such as Priestley could begin to present stories which echo the thoughts of a changing society. Rather than upholding the class system and unfair division of wealth which saw many living in poverty, Priestley uses An Inspector Calls to call for a rebuilding of society based on ideals of equality and collective responsibility. The conflict of these two ideas is presented throughout the play, personified through Mr Birling and Inspector Goole. The two characters are shown to clash almost from their meeting, voicing the ethics of both principles and demonstrating their juxtaposing attitudes.
