On Functionalist Approach To Conference Interpretation

This thesis analyses the functions and problems of conference interpretation under the functionalist framework. Based on the theory of human action, interpretation is seen as a purposeful cross-cultural and inter-lingual activity. The function of interpretation determines the coping strategies of interpreting problems.The functionalist study of interpretation starts with a brief introduction of the theory of human action and key concepts of functional translation theory. Then the author examines the kinship and differences of translation and interpretation in order to see what the tools and concepts of functionalism may help with analysis of interpretation. The author concludes that since both interpretation and translation are a form of purposeful translational activities, the framework of functional analysis can be applied to interpreting. But due to the differences between translation and interpretation, the findings of current functionalist study can lend limited equality to interpretation. Thus, the author tries to explore interpretation issues with a functionalist approach.With the functionalist approach, the author analyzes the functions of conference discourse which decide the functions of conference interpretation. Then the discussion goes further to the three interpreting problems: pragmatic, cultural and linguistic. The three interpreting problems should be dealt with different levels of priority. Hence the hierarchy of interpreting problems, in which the pragmatic problem is positioned at the top and the other two are subordinate to it. Examples are quoted from interpreting practices to validate the author's opinions about the functionalist approach to interpretation.