The Concept of Equivalence in Translation Studies

Publisher： John Benjamins Publishing Company

E-ISSN： 1569-9986|9|2|207-233

ISSN： 0924-1884

Source： Target. International Journal of Translation Studies, Vol.9, Iss.2, 1997-01, pp. : 207-233

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Abstract

Abstract: Within translation studies, there remains a certain amount of unnecessary discord concerning the use of the equivalence concept and its relevance for translation theory. In the interest of better understanding the various points of view, it seems helpful to consider different perspectives on this concept in light of the varying philosophical assumptions on which they are based. Analogies between the equivalence concept and a concept of scientific knowledge as it is and has been studied within the philosophy of science are highly informative in pointing out the philosophical issues involved in equivalence, translation, and knowledge. Rather than dismissing the concept as ill-defined or imprecise, it is in the interest of the field of translation studies to consider the origins and manifestations of this 'imprecision ' in order that we may be better informed and less inclined towards theoretical antagonism. Résumé: Les études de traduction adoptent, quant à l'importance théorique et quant à l'usage du concept d'équivalence, des points de vue inutilement divergents. Afin de mieux comprendre ces derniers, il paraît salutaire de les éclairer à la lumière des hypothèses philosophiques qui les étayent. L'observation d'analogies entre le concept d'équivalence et celui de la cognition scientifique mis en oeuvre en philosophie des sciences conduit à la découverte de problèmes philosophiques communs à l'équivalence, la traduction ou la cognition. Au lieu d'écarter le concept d'équivalence comme étant mal défini ou imprécis, il conviendrait d'examiner les origines et modalités de cette imprécision dans le but de mieux informer et de prévenir ainsi les antagonismes théoriques.