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Translating ethics: Walking the talk in a world of words

Written by Gabriela Iacoboni | August 13, 2024

In the world of translation, where words bridge cultures, ethics play a pivotal role. Translators are often seen as invisible mediators, tasked with accurately conveying meaning from one language to another.  However, the notion of "complete and entirely impartial meaning transfer" is increasingly seen as both unrealistic and potentially harmful. The ethical landscape of translation is complex and multifaceted, requiring more than just adherence to traditional codes of ethics.

 

Our upcoming webinar, "Getting 'Right' Right: An Introduction to Ethics in Translation," delves into these complexities, challenging the traditional view of ethical codes in the translation profession. Dr. Joseph Lambert will explore the question: Are these codes really guiding us towards ethical translation practices, or do they merely serve as professional window dressing?

 

Webinar information

✓ Live 90-minute webinar

✓Thursday August 20 - 16.00 GMT

✓ Recording will be made available for registered attendees.

✓ Certificate of attendance.

 

This is webinar is exclusive for Plus and Premium membership subscribers. Upgrade your ProZ.com subscription package.

Why attend?

  1. Challenge conventional wisdom: Traditional codes of ethics often promote a simplistic view of translation, emphasizing neutrality and fidelity. However, these codes may not fully capture the nuanced and interpretive nature of the translator's work. This webinar will question these assumptions, offering a more realistic and ethically sound perspective on translation practices.

  2. Understand the mediatory role of the translator: As translators, we are not just conveyors of meaning but active participants in the communication process. The webinar will explore how this mediatory role should be reflected in ethical guidelines, moving beyond the outdated idea of impartiality.

  3. Redefine 'good' translation: What does it mean to be a good translator in today's complex world? We will discuss the limitations of current ethical codes and explore alternative models that better align with the realities of translation work.

  4. Engage in ethical reflection: The session will encourage participants to reflect on their own practices, examining how ethical codes can be re-imagined to genuinely support translators in their daily work, rather than simply dictate unrealistic standards.

 

Who should attend?

This webinar is ideal for translators, interpreters, language service providers, and anyone interested in the ethical dimensions of translation work. Whether you're new to the field or an experienced professional, you'll gain valuable insights into how to navigate the ethical challenges of our profession.

 

Ethics in translation is not just about following rules; it's about understanding the impact of our choices and striving to do justice to both the source and target texts. Join us for "Getting 'Right' Right: An Introduction to Ethics in Translation" and be part of a critical conversation that is reshaping our profession.

Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of ethics in translation and to contribute to the development of more realistic and supportive ethical guidelines for our industry.

Register now and take the first step towards getting "right" right in your translation practice!

 

 

Dr Joseph Lambert is a passionate Translation Studies academic and a freelance translator working from French and Italian into English. 
Joseph specialises in sports translation, having worked in the industry for a number of years during his studies, but in recent years has focused more on his academic career.
Since completing a PhD in 2018, Joseph has worked as a lecturer in Translation Studies in universities across the UK. He currently teaches on the undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Translation Studies at Cardiff University, running both practical and theoretical sessions on everything from Trados to translation ethics.
As well as having significant teaching experience, Joseph is also an active researcher and has written articles, book chapters, and a textbook on various facets of translation. While his primary research interest is translation ethics, he has also written extensively on the translation profession, including works tackling rates of pay, working conditions, and sustainability.