Towards integrating conflict management strategies as a theoretical framework for translation

Abstract

Anthony Pym (2005) is a forerunner in introducing economic concepts in translation studies. His risk management as a theoretical framework for translation is very significant. Departing from his observation, we think that The Thomas-Kilmann conflict management styles offer a set of techniques to overcome conflicts in business contexts and respond adequately according to the situation. These techniques shift between assertiveness and cooperation. This paper studies the contribution of the Thomas-Kilmann strategies in translation. Conflict resolutions strategies can also be a cornerstone in economic and business translation in particular. In fact, we have noticed the similarity between human conflicts in a business environment and linguistic conflicts. A conflict emerges from the use of power to an individual’s will but also inability to meet his needs that are in the hands of another individual. Conflicts are the consequence of concentration of interests on one side and misunderstandings are attributed to the lack of communication. Thomas-Kilmann strategies vary from a cooperative to assertive methods and these are: competing, collaborating, compromising, avoiding, and accommodating. We strive here to integrate these conflict management strategies in specialized translation, notably the economic text, and see to what extent they can be practical in translation.