Otto von Bismarck: 'To retain respect for sausages and laws, one must not watch them in the making.'

To retain respect for sausages and laws, one must not watch them in the making.

The quote by Otto von Bismarck, 'To retain respect for sausages and laws, one must not watch them in the making,' captures a deeper truth about human perception and the way we assign value to things. On a surface level, the quote suggests that it is best not to witness the process behind the creation of certain things, such as sausages and laws, in order to maintain a sense of respect for them. This sentiment implies that the behind-the-scenes reality might tarnish our perception of the final product.In an unexpected twist, let's delve into a philosophical concept known as "the veil of ignorance." Proposed by the philosopher John Rawls, this concept suggests that when deciding on principles for society, individuals should imagine themselves behind a veil where they are unaware of their own personal characteristics, such as their wealth, social status, or abilities. By removing this knowledge, people can make fair and unbiased decisions that prioritize the well-being of the entire society rather than just themselves.Remarkably, Bismarck's quote aligns with the underlying principles of the veil of ignorance. Just as people might lose respect for sausages and laws by witnessing their production, the veil of ignorance urges us to disconnect ourselves from preconceived notions and personal biases. It encourages us to evaluate a situation or concept solely on its inherent value or fairness, devoid of any knowledge about our personal circumstances.However, there is a vital distinction to be made. While Bismarck's quote suggests that ignorance is necessary to retain respect, the veil of ignorance champions a different kind of ignorance - an intentional one rooted in fairness and empathy. It calls for a willful blindness to our own privileges and advantages, enabling us to make more equitable decisions for the benefit of all.By shedding light on this philosophical concept, we can recognize the quote's underlying complexity. Bismarck's words, though seemingly light-hearted, offer us an opportunity for reflection. They provoke us to critically examine our biases, prejudices, and preconceived notions when it comes to assessing the value of things, be it sausages, laws, or even societal principles.In essence, the quote challenges us to consider the role of perception and our inherent bias when evaluating the world around us. It urges us to acknowledge that our judgments are often influenced by our limited understanding of the processes and complexities involved. Yet, in the face of this recognition, the veil of ignorance offers us a path towards fairer decision-making.Ultimately, Otto von Bismarck's quote, when paired with the philosophical concept of the veil of ignorance, reminds us of the importance of self-reflection and examination of our own perspectives. It encourages us to be aware of our individual limitations and biases, in order to make more informed and equitable judgments in our interactions with the complicated mechanisms that govern our world. By employing such insights, we can strive towards a society where respect is granted not only to the products but also to the processes that shape them.