Investigating Western social science terminology in China’s late Qing and early Republican Eras

A case study of Yan Fu’s translations

Bibliographic Data

ID20395397
AuthorsLichun Tao (0000-0003-1512-1924, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications), Yanjun Pan (0009-0002-0637-4209, East China Normal University), Zixuan Wang (0000-0001-7751-1691, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications)
Year2025
Publication date2025-07-11
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueTerminology International Journal of Theoretical and Applied Issues in Specialized Communication (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0929-9971 • E-ISSN: 1569-9994
PublisherJohn Benjamins Publishing Company (PUBLISHER • NL)
DOI10.1075/term.24038.tao
OpenAlexW4412190474
LanguageEN
References cited4

This paper examines the crucial role of Western social science terminology (WSST) translation in China during the late Qing dynasty and early Republican periods through a case study of Yan Fu’s translations. Against the backdrop of profound socio-political upheavals of the time, Yan Fu’s work facilitated intellectual discourse and played a crucial role in China’s modernization. By analyzing his translation strategies, terminology choices, and the socio-cultural factors shaping his work, this study offers a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of WSST translation during the period. Through statistical analysis and a systematic exploration of terminology databases, the research highlights how Yan Fu’s translations mirrored key trends, such as the tension between foreign cultural influences, utilitarian ideals, and a rethinking of traditional Chinese values. Yan Fu’s translations serve as a window into the broader patterns of cross-cultural exchange, contributing to China’s academic development

Archaeology · China · Linguistics · Political science · Terminology · Contemporary Sociological Theory and Practice · Cultural Differences and Values · History · Philosophy · Social and Cultural Dynamics

Tools

Open DOI