Meaning: The quote "To retain respect for sausages and laws, one must not watch them in the making" is often attributed to Otto von Bismarck, a prominent 19th-century German statesman and the first Chancellor of the German Empire. This witty and insightful quote touches on the idea that the processes behind certain things, particularly those that are important or esteemed, might be best left unseen in order to maintain a sense of reverence or respect for them.

The comparison between sausages and laws in this quote is particularly intriguing. Sausages, as a food item, are often enjoyed by people without full knowledge of their production process. Similarly, laws, as the foundation of a society's governance, are often followed and respected without a deep understanding of how they are formulated and enacted. Bismarck's quote suggests that if one were to witness the intricate and potentially messy processes involved in making sausages or laws, it might diminish the respect or regard they have for these things.

In the context of sausages, the quote could be interpreted as a humorous way of saying that ignorance is bliss. By not knowing the exact ingredients and methods used in making sausages, individuals can continue to enjoy them without being put off by the sometimes unappetizing realities of their production. This idea can be extended to other areas of life, where the behind-the-scenes workings of certain things might not align with the idealized or romanticized image we hold of them.

When applied to laws, the quote takes on a more serious tone. Laws are meant to uphold justice and order in society, and they are often revered as symbols of fairness and equality. However, the process of legislating and enforcing laws can be complex, contentious, and even flawed at times. Bismarck's quote suggests that if citizens were to witness the intricacies and potential shortcomings of the legal system, they might lose some of their respect for the laws that govern them.

The quote also speaks to the concept of perception and reality. It implies that our perception of something can be influenced by our knowledge of its inner workings. If we were to see the messy, chaotic, or unseemly processes involved in making sausages or enacting laws, our perception of these things might be altered, potentially leading to a loss of respect or appreciation.

In a broader sense, Bismarck's quote can be seen as a commentary on the nature of idealization and the human tendency to uphold certain concepts or institutions without fully understanding the complexities behind them. It suggests that maintaining a degree of ignorance about the intricacies of certain processes might actually be beneficial in preserving our respect and admiration for them.

Overall, the quote "To retain respect for sausages and laws, one must not watch them in the making" offers a thought-provoking insight into the dynamics of perception, respect, and the potential disillusionment that can arise from gaining too much insight into the inner workings of revered institutions or concepts. Whether humorous or sobering, Bismarck's words continue to resonate with audiences as a reminder of the delicate balance between knowledge and reverence.