Translating Cultures: Perspectives on Translation and Anthropology
The task of the anthropologist is to take ideas, concepts and beliefs
from one culture and translate them into first another language, and
then into the language of anthropology. This process is both
fascinating and complex. Not only does it raise questions about the
limitations of language, but it also challenges the ability of the
anthropologist to communicate culture accurately. In recent years,
postmodern theories have tended to call into question the legitimacy of
translation altogether. This book acknowledges the problems involved,
but shows definitively that 'translating cultures' can successfully be
achieved.
The way we talk, write, read and interpret are all part of a
translation process. Many of us are not aware of translation in our
everyday lives, but for those living outside their native culture,
surrounded by cultural difference, the ability to translate experiences
and thoughts becomes a major issue. Drawing on case studies and
theories from a wide range of disciplines -including anthropology,
philosophy, linguistics, art history, folk theory, and religious
studies - this book systematically interrogates the meaning,
complexities and importance of translation in anthropology and answers
a wide range of provocative questions, such as:
- Can we unravel the true meaning of the Christian doctrine of trinity when there have been so many translations?
- What impact do colonial and postcolonial power structures have on our understanding of other cultures?
- How can we use art as a means of transgressing the limitations of linguistic translation?
Translating Cultures: Perspectives on Translation and Anthropology
is the first book fully to address translation in anthropology. It
combines textual and ethnographic analysis to produce a benchmark
publication that will be of great importance to anthropologists,
philosophers, linguists, historians, and cultural theorists alike.