Knowledge manipulation through translation between Arabic and English

Abstract

Translation involves the process of transferring texts to target audiences who possess an established system of representation (master discourse) that has its own set of norms for producing and consuming knowledge concerning the self, others, objects, and events. Influenced by its own culture, this master discourse governs matters related to identity, similarities, and differences between the source and target texts and associated cultures. While it is theoretically assumed that intercultural encounters through translation should celebrate diversity and differences, practices indicate otherwise: mon-isms have dominated over intended multi-isms. Focusing primarily on the translation of texts from Arabic into English, this article explores how the master discourse regulates translation, shaping the way knowledge is manipulated, and influencing the translation process, its product, and ultimately its reception.