The tumult of terminology and the fixation on unification: a critical and evaluative examination of the origins and endeavors of translation in the Arab world

Abstract

This paper examines the significance of terminology in the formation of scientific knowledge, highlighting that terminology transcends mere linguistic tools; it embodies the essence of science and is crucial for comprehension. It draws upon Abdel Salam El-Masdi's assertion that terminology serves as the conceptual barrier safeguarding science and symbolizes its autonomy. The paper underscores the challenges of idiomatic translation within the realm of linguistics as it pertains to the Arabic context. It observes that this transfer transpired without a defined methodology, resulting in subjectivity prevailing throughout the translation process. Consequently, this engendered a terminological disarray that perplexed scholars and fostered a fear of terminology. This situation has significantly contributed to a considerable number of students' reluctance toward linguistic studies. The paper seeks to address several critical questions: What are the origins of this terminological confusion? What are its underlying factors? And has translation effectively fulfilled its essential role in disseminating linguistic knowledge? Additionally, it offers a series of solutions aimed at mitigating this chaos by examining the history of translation and the phases of Western knowledge transfer, while also investigating methods to enhance Arabic linguistic studies with accurate concepts and terminology that align with global scientific advancements.