Ecolinguistics, Ecotranslatology, Ecology of Translation: Correlation of Concepts in the Light of Modern Discourse Practice

Abstract

In today's world, there is a notable shift not only towards the "ecologization" of human consciousness but also within various domains of scientific knowledge, including translation theory and linguistics. Translation studies that incorporate the prefix "eco" necessitate a systematic classification and the establishment of semantic connections among terms. This article seeks to delve into the emergence of an ecological approach to translation within the contexts of both Russian and Chinese translation studies, aiming to elucidate the interrelationships between key concepts that characterize modern trends in translation research across diverse academic traditions. The primary objective of this article is to establish a symbiotic relationship between ecotranslatology, which originated in China, and the ecology of translation, a discipline that has emerged in Russia. Ecotranslatology, as an independent subfield within translation studies, is deeply rooted in traditional Chinese culture and currently stands as a thriving area of inquiry in the People's Republic of China. In contrast, the ecology of translation is actively advancing under the purview of Russian linguists, who emphasize that high-quality, harmonious translation encompasses not only cultural congruence but also ecological alignment. This ecological perspective is posited to underpin the development of a translation ecosystem within the broader global ecosystem. Methodologically, this study draws from several dimensions: firstly, it brings together the ideas of international linguists specializing in linguistic ecology and ecolinguistics; secondly, it explores research on cognitive modeling of the translation process in an ecosystem that unites the translator with the socio-natural environment of his habitat. Finally, the study includes the perspective of Chinese scholars based on the classical theory of adaptation and choice in translation. Ultimately, this study highlights the importance of environmental science in understanding the cognitive mechanisms inherent in the translation process.