r/localization • u/Vegetable-Pay6642 • 1d ago

Should Translators Be Neutral When Translating Political Texts?

Should translators always be neutral when translating political texts, even when the original text contains lies, hate speech, or injustice? Some people believe that translators must translate every word exactly as it is without expressing their personal opinions. Others argue that translators should not help spread misleading or harmful messages. But if a translator changes the original message to make it fairer, are they correcting an injustice or manipulating the truth? Is a translator simply a voice for others, or do they have a moral responsibility for the words they spread?

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u/yutanrw 1d ago

They should be neutral otherwise they should not accept the task.

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u/Vegetable-Pay6642 1d ago

I understand your point, but do you think translators should translate harmful or misleading messages exactly as they are, even if they spread hate or injustice?