Research On The Acceptance Mode Of Polysystem Theory In China

Translation theoretical research plays a critical role in the discipline constructionof translation studies, while the acceptance of translation theories becomes acommon issue faced by the present translation circle worldwide. Since the later partof the20th century, western translation theories have made great achievements andexperienced the historical periods of linguistic turn and cultural turn. In theglobalization context, they have crossed the time and space and been spread allaround the world.Chinese translation studies have also been great influenced at various aspects bywestern translation theories. However, there is still a lack of universal translationtheory originated in China; thus, the author assumes the acceptance mode is wherethe crucial problem lies. Therefore, taking the spread of polysystem theory in Chinaas a case study, this thesis focuses on the study of acceptance mode of westerntranslation theories. It also combs and analyzes the key concepts of translationstudies in polysystem theory; analyzes reasons for the current mode; comments theeffects and problems of the mode; meanwhile, it makes a primary study of a betteracceptance mode of western translation theories in China.This thesis finds out the acceptance mode of polysystem theory in China asfollows:The first period is the preliminary studies stage for polysystem theory and thereare also tentative application and criticism of it. After the year2000，Chinesescholars try to make a broad and in-depth introduction and research into the theory.There are more reflective judgments on the theory and articles for consultation aboutthe understanding of polysystem theory in this period. Introduction and research onthe ontology of the theory almost stop at the third period. Meanwhile, there are moreresearches on the application of the theory to Chinese translation activities duringthis phase. Besides, researches keep on discussing the limitations of the theory. However, the above acceptance mode also shows insufficiencies. Therefore,combining the enlightenments from that proposed in natural science, somemodifications on the acceptance mode for western translation theories in China aresuggested:In the early days of the introduction of a new theory, a pre-verification analysisof its logic feasibility and a comprehensive and in-depth research on its ontologyshould be done. Besides a comprehensive understanding of the theory, attentionshould also be paid to the important role of literature review in theoretical research.The stage of theory application is regarded as the verisimilitude evaluation phase ofpost-verification stage in natural science. The subject of acceptance studies the truthnature of the theory by verification. However, the verification cannot be madethough trial and error method. At the value evaluation phase and attitude-taking stage,the value of the new theory is analyzed in order to find its progressiveness andeffectiveness, based on which the decision whether it is possible to agree with thistheory can be made at last. Meanwhile, the critical reflection studies of westerntranslation theories should be strengthened at this period.