Translation: Ancient Bridges Between Cultures

Chinese parents invest a lot in English language education for their children. English is a major subject in China’s curriculum from primary schools to college. However,  Xu Jin （许进）, a member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, the top political advisory body, recently proposed to remove English from the national college entrance exam. One of his reasons is that computers can do a very good job of translation.  But can machines replace human link for cultural exchanges? More than 2,000 years ago, a venture of a Chinese diplomatic delegation paved the way for the Silk Road trade between China and the West. But nothing was possible without  the bravery and loyalty of the interpreter and guide of the delegation, Tangyi Fu, a former Hun soldier. After Buddhism was introduced into China, it was a Persian translator that brought the real teachings of the religion to the Chinese public. In the 16th and 17th century, a Chinese scientist not only translated, but also practiced Western science and technology. His achievements  are still remembered today.