Why complexity might not be too simple for translation studies

Bibliographic Data

ID21727843
AuthorsKobus Marais (0000-0002-6051-4957, University of the Free State, corresponding author), Reine Meylaerts (0000-0002-8088-1519, KU Leuven)
Year2025
Volume18
Issue1
Pages44-60
Publication date2025-01-02
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueTranslation Studies (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1478-1700 • E-ISSN: 1751-2921
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/14781700.2024.2421545
OpenAlexW4404984565
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited44

This article reflects on the authors’ work in complexity thinking in translation studies against the background of current debates in the field. It argues that complexity thinking offers better solutions to translation studies than do linear and reductionist thinking. For instance, in a complexity framework, empirical and conceptual work are not seen in opposition but as mutually enriching perspectives. Equally, reducing the ambit of complexity thinking to probabilism limits the scope of solutions to complex problems. The goals of research are complex, and the tensions between various goals should not be reduced. The article also addresses the complex relationship between ontology and epistemology, arguing against a reduction to either. Lastly, it engages with particular criticism about complexity as an epistemological position and about the political intent of the authors. The article closes with an overview of the contributions that complexity thinking has brought to translation studies

Biology · Epistemology · Mathematical economics · Computer Science · Italian Literature and Culture · Language, Metaphor, and Cognition · Mathematics · Philosophy · Translation Studies and Practices · Genetics

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