[Review] IS THE GLASS HALF EMPTY OR HALF FULL? REFLECTIONS ON TRANSLATION THEORY AND PRACTICE IN BRAZIL by Alice LEAL, 2014. [Transkulturalität - Translation – Transfer] Volume 12. Berlin: Frank & Timme, 334 pp. ISBN 978-3-7329-0068-8

Abstract

Alice Leal’s Is the glass half empty or half full? Reflections on translation theory and practice in Brazil is a thorough study of many different topics that are relevant to Translation Studies these days. The book is ambitious in the sense that it addresses topics as diverse as translator professionalization (and the status of the profession), the goals of Translation Studies, the institutionalisation of Translation Studies, essentialism vs. non-essentialism, theory vs. practice, and translator training. It also goes beyond the scope of Translation Studies by touching on epistemological issues such as modern vs. post-modern theories, scientism, and the role of higher education.