Original scientific paper

On the Non-Algorithmic Nature of Translation Theory

Vladimir Ivir

Abstract

The paper examines the nature of the translation process and shows that - given the elements of that process and modes of their interaction - the theory that purports to explain it cannot be an algorithmic theory. It will be shown that equivalence, the goal of translation and the central concept of translation theory, is not given in advance, to be 'discovered' by the translator, or to be arrived at following a definite set of rules, a given Sequence of operations, or a prescribed programme or routine; rather it evolves in a communicative situation in which all the elements involved in the translation process mutually interact and affect one another. The following elements need to be considered: subject matter to be communicated, source language system, original sender, translator as receiver, target language system, translator as sender, channels of contmunication, sender-receiver feedback, ultimate receiver. Since any change in any of these elements changes both the process and the result of translation, and since the number of possible changes is infinite, it is clear that whatever else translation theory may be, it is not an algorithm. Certain implications of this for translation theory
will be discussed.

Keywords

Hrčak ID:

121429

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/121429

Publication date:

5.12.1991.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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