ETHICAL AND PHILOSOPHICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN THE TRANSLATION OF RELIGIOUS TEXTS IN THE GLOBAL DISSEMINATION OF CHINESE CULTURE

Abstract

The "Culture Going Global" initiative has ushered in significant opportunities for the dissemination of Chinese culture, placing the role of translators at the forefront of this global cultural dialogue. This paper examines the construction of translators' identities through the dual lenses of philosophy and international relations, highlighting the profound ethical and philosophical implications of their work. From a philosophical standpoint, the analysis addresses issues such as the interplay between Eastern and Western philosophical traditions, the intricacies of translation as an interpretative act, and the implications of post-colonial theory in the translation process. Conversely, the international relations perspective sheds light on how translations influence global cultural perceptions and contribute to the shaping of world order. The identity of the translator is explored as a complex site of negotiation where challenges such as Western centrism, multicultural dynamics, cultural hegemony, and power relations converge. These challenges not only question the neutrality of translation but also emphasize the translator's role as a mediator of cultural values and a constructor of socio-political realities. Translators are posited not just as linguistic intermediaries but as pivotal figures in promoting global cultural pluralism, advancing Chinese philosophical and contemporary socialist values, and innovating translation theory and practice. The paper argues that addressing these philosophical and ethical challenges is crucial for the successful global transmission of Chinese culture and for fostering a more inclusive understanding of the role of translators in international relations. By critically engaging with these issues, translators can contribute to a broader and deeper appreciation of Chinese culture on the global stage, thus supporting the broader objectives of socialism with Chinese characteristics.