Using critical posthumanist methods to navigate human translators’ roles in the AI era

Abstract The rapid development of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has led to increased academic inquiry into the ethical role of humans in translation activities from a posthumanist perspective. However, studies that reconceptualize translation or the translator through this lens remain limited, partly due to the marginalization of posthumanist perspectives within the predominantly human-centered discourse of AI. In this context, this article first outlines the three main branches of posthumanism—reactive posthumanism, transhumanism, and critical posthumanism—and seeks to establish preliminary connections between these branches and existing frameworks in translation studies. This foundational discussion is intended to provide essential context for readers unfamiliar with the subject, thereby enabling a deeper engagement with the subsequent analysis. This comparison highlights divergent approaches to technology and human identity. Following this introduction, the article examines perspectives from transhumanism and critical posthumanism, highlighting why critical posthumanism may become a crucial influence in future translation research. In essence, critical posthumanism encourages translators to dismantle the barriers created by self-centered individualism, to seek ways to enhance interdisciplinary or professional skills to navigate complex human-machine workflows, and to recognize the significant contributions of non-human actors as co-participants in the translation process. This study proposes the “Round Table Hypothesis,” which aims to explore the prospective roles and new responsibilities of future translators (termed ‘post-translators’) within evolving, AI-shaped translation practices. This hypothesis will also contribute to expanding the theoretical framework that future research on translator competence and training should take into consideration, particularly regarding interaction with AI. This paper posits that translators and students should adopt a critical posthumanist stance as a vital strategy for navigating present or future shifts in the translation market. This involves recognizing technology not just as a tool but as a co- evolving agent, necessitating new skills and adaptabilities. Such an approach not only helps translators adapt to technological advances but also fosters effective and ethical human-machine collaboration and requires updating training to include AI interaction strategies and interdisciplinary knowledge (e.g., computer science, marketing), thereby ensuring their competitiveness in future translation ecosystems.