Douglas Robinson (translation scholar)

TL;DR

Dean of Arts at Hong Kong Baptist University discusses his journey from Finland to Hong Kong and the intricacies of translation studies in the region.

Transcript

look good to see you thank you this eu27 I thought what do you do what's you do up at the moment my job is Dean of Arts at Hong Kong Baptist University I've been doing for about a year now and a chair professor of English but I don't do any teaching in the English department currently teaching an MA course in Western translation theory okay so you ... Read More

Key Insights

• 🇭🇰 Translation studies in Hong Kong involve a significant interest in theory and practice.
• 🇭🇰 The Dean's career path from Finland to Mississippi to Hong Kong showcases diverse experiences in academia.
• 🫚 Exploring Chinese roots in translation adds a dynamic cultural perspective to the field.
• 😮 The rise of sociological research in translation studies brings new dimensions to the discipline.
• 🏑 The Dean's dual roles as an academic and a translator reflect a unique approach to the field.
• 🇭🇰 The significance of Chinese philosophical traditions in shaping translation practices in Hong Kong and mainland China.
• ⚖️ The importance of balancing Western and Chinese translation scholarship in academic discourse.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the Dean of Arts at Hong Kong Baptist University end up in Hong Kong?

The Dean mentioned that he wanted to experience Asia after a career in the US and Europe, eventually leading him to apply for jobs in Hong Kong.

Q: What are the main camps in translation studies in Hong Kong?

Translation studies in Hong Kong involve two camps: one focused on theory and the other on practice, creating a diverse landscape for translation scholars.

Q: What was the Dean doing before coming to Hong Kong?

Before Hong Kong, the Dean lived in Finland and the US, working on translation projects while also teaching English and American Studies.

Q: What is the Dean's perspective on the need for sociological research in translation studies?

The Dean believes in the importance of integrating sociological research into translation studies, highlighting the value of humanities and social sciences in the field.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Dean of Arts in Hong Kong discusses his career path from Finland to Hong Kong.

• Translation studies in Hong Kong involve two main camps: theory-focused and practice-oriented.

• The importance of exploring Chinese roots in translation studies in Hong Kong and mainland China.