Scholars have extensively explored translation as product and as process, but relatively little attention has been paid to translation as a power of defence and construction. This paper proposes a modest step in this direction by conceptualizing the power of translation in the modern world of globalization in terms of the soft power theory, with particular reference to the Chinese context. With this in mind, the author argues that globalization presents both opportunities and challenges for translation as a soft power. In the face of rising fears regarding a crisis of identities and a cultural deficit intensified by globalization, the roles of translation as a “cultural filter” and a bridge for intercultural communication give it a defensive soft power. Under soft-power-oriented policies, translation not only serves as a “charm” tool for public diplomacy and nation-branding, but also contributes to an understanding of China’s ideals and helps export Chinese cultural values, thereby highlighting its role as a constructive soft power.
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Geng, Qiang
2022. Discourse Models on Practice and Studies of Outbound Translation of Chinese Literature. In Chinese Literature in the World [New Frontiers in Translation Studies, ], ► pp. 39 ff.
van Doorslaer, Luc
2023. The Lower Limits of Literary Translation Circulation. In Translating Minorities and Conflict in Literature [TRANSÜD. Arbeiten zur Theorie und Praxis des Übersetzens und Dolmetschens, 141], ► pp. 237 ff.
2020. Globalization, Science Fiction and the China Story: Translation, Dissemination and Reception of Liu Cixin’s Works across the Globe. Critical Arts 34:6 ► pp. 56 ff.
Wu, You
2022. A Fictional Prescription for National Emancipation. Interventions 24:8 ► pp. 1328 ff.
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