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Article published In:
Babel
Vol. 63:4 (2017) ► pp.463–485

Globalization, translation and soft power

A Chinese perspective

| Shanghai University |

Scholars have extensively explored translation as product and as process, but relatively little attention has been paid to translation as a power of defence and construction. This paper proposes a modest step in this direction by conceptualizing the power of translation in the modern world of globalization in terms of the soft power theory, with particular reference to the Chinese context. With this in mind, the author argues that globalization presents both opportunities and challenges for translation as a soft power. In the face of rising fears regarding a crisis of identities and a cultural deficit intensified by globalization, the roles of translation as a “cultural filter” and a bridge for intercultural communication give it a defensive soft power. Under soft-power-oriented policies, translation not only serves as a “charm” tool for public diplomacy and nation-branding, but also contributes to an understanding of China’s ideals and helps export Chinese cultural values, thereby highlighting its role as a constructive soft power.

Keywords: globalization, translation, soft power, China
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Globalization and translation: A cultural perspective
  • 3.Theoretical framework: Translation, power dynamics and soft power
  • 4.Translation as defensive soft power: A perspective from cultural security
    • 4.1Translation and cultural reconstruction
    • 4.2Translation in face of cultural deficit
  • 5.Translation as constructive soft power: An ambition of the “Great Renewal”
    • 5.1Translation as a “charm” tool for public diplomacy and nation branding
    • 5.2Translation to develop an understanding of China’s ideals and export Chinese values
    • 5.3Ensuring sustainable development of the translation industry
  • 6.Concluding remarks
  • Acknowledgements
  • Notes
  • References
Published online: 20 November 2017
DOI logo
https://doi.org/10.1075/babel.63.4.01wu
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