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Article published In:
Target
Vol. 10:1 (1998) ► pp.41–68

Starting to Unask What Translatology Is About [1] 1

| Heidelberg, Germany

The author presents his strictly functional theory ("Skopos Theory") of translation. Acting is primarily conditioned by a "purpose" and the nature of the intended addressees. The source text wording is of secondary importance. The functional skopos model allows the translator freedom to act as an expert and gives him responsibility for his approach. Modern research in reception aesthetics, neurobiology, philosophy and other disciplines confirms the contingency and relativity of all human behaviour. The author briefly discusses several new brain theories and Dawkins' "meme" concept and some of their implications for translating.

Article outline
  • The Meaning of "Skopos Theory"
  • Some (Incoherent) Thoughts on Translatology
  • A Loophole in the Vicious Circle?
  • Relativism Again
  • Freedom and Responsibility
  • Role and Person
  • Exemplifying Freedom
  • Where To Go?
  • Notes
  • References
Published online: 1 January 1998
DOI logo
https://doi.org/10.1075/target.10.1.03ver
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