Studies on the Translation of Classical Philosophy

This chapter focuses on the research surrounding the translation of classical Chinese philosophy, which began in the late sixteenth century with early translations by missionaries like Michele Ruggieri and Matteo Ricci. The chapter highlights the shift in translation practices around 1807, when Robert Morrison became the first Protestant missionary to translate Chinese classics directly into English. Since the 1980s, there has been a notable increase in the volume of research literature, including journal articles, theses, and monographs, particularly on Confucian texts such as the Analects of Kongzi and the Four Books. Statistical analysis shows that a significant portion of translation studies concentrate on Confucian classics, with a notable preference for the Analects of Kongzi , which alone accounts for a substantial number of research papers. Despite these developments, the chapter notes that studies on other philosophical works, particularly from the Neo-Confucian tradition, remain limited. It emphasizes the need for a more comprehensive exploration of translation history and methodologies, while also suggesting potential research topics, including the dissemination of Chinese philosophy globally and the effects of translation on cultural communication.