Although the focus on professionalism in community interpreting is extremely welcome, the existing literature does not take sufficient account of cross-cultural differences in identity- and role-building. This paper, using research findings from Trompenaars and Hampden-Turner’s work, discusses the problems that arise for the interpreter negotiating cultural practices between on the one hand an individualistic, achievement-based culture and on the other hand a collective culture in which social and professional roles are largely ascribed. Where achievement-based Western individualism demands a strict compartmentalization of the private/public sphere of an individual’s life, in many so-called ‘ascriptive’ cultures the construction of personhood is founded on the self as an integral part of the close group, governing the individual’s – and the interpreter’s – loyalty to institution, individual, group, or professional code of ethics.
Professionalism and ethics in community interpreting: The impact of individualism versus collective group identity
RUDVIN, METTE
2007
Abstract
Although the focus on professionalism in community interpreting is extremely welcome, the existing literature does not take sufficient account of cross-cultural differences in identity- and role-building. This paper, using research findings from Trompenaars and Hampden-Turner’s work, discusses the problems that arise for the interpreter negotiating cultural practices between on the one hand an individualistic, achievement-based culture and on the other hand a collective culture in which social and professional roles are largely ascribed. Where achievement-based Western individualism demands a strict compartmentalization of the private/public sphere of an individual’s life, in many so-called ‘ascriptive’ cultures the construction of personhood is founded on the self as an integral part of the close group, governing the individual’s – and the interpreter’s – loyalty to institution, individual, group, or professional code of ethics.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.