Interpretation as Translation: A Gadamerian Perspective

Abstract

The phenomenon of translation plays an important role in Gadamer’s hermeneutics as a model for what interpretation actually is and for what it accomplishes. This paper wants to show that, by characterizing interpretation as a translation, the philosopher wishes to articulate how understanding is a mediation process that is linguistic in nature and that adapts itself to the situation to which the reader belongs. With regards to the philosophical inquiry about truth and method, the example of translation is particularly instructive because it illustrates how the interpretative reworking of a foreign meaning might be an legitim and integral part of its conveying, and not something like a subjective interference that ought to be avoided at all costs.