Abstract

RIOS SZALAY, Jorge. Deficient translations, from english to spanish, of theoretical books on organizations: an obstacle to knowledge. Contad. Adm [online]. 2009, n.228, pp.9-40. ISSN 0186-1042.

Firstly, it is argued that language is a vital element of the scientific method since knowledge is created through the dialog established between researchers mainly by means of written words; therefore, the rigor or negligence when using language influences knowledge itself. Consequently, translation of an author's thought from one language to another is a crucial issue since it may function as a mean for advancing or for obstructing knowledge. Secondly, it is argued that translations from English to Spanish of management and theory of organization books are often so mistaken that they distort important ideas of the authors. Evidences of this assertion are presented through analyzing the translation of important paragraphs of books of five influential thinkers: Koontz and O'Donnell, Terry, Barnard and Mouzelis. Finally, main causes of these problems are briefly analyzed and some preliminary ideas to diminish them are outlined.

Keywords : management language; theory of organization language; management terminology; translation and science.

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