中西方思维模式的对比研究(一)

A Comparative Study on Western and Chinese Thinking Models

Abstract: The essay pays attention to the differences between translated and original American dramas’ name. By analyzing the causes behind the otherness, the essay points out that different thinking starting points and the main factors are the-distinct function of heart and brain between two cultures and dissimilar knowledge morphology, which account for the differences between Western and Chinese thinking models. After knowing this, it can help us to make intercultural communications without many conflicts.

Key words：thinking model, thinking starting point, heart and brain, knowledge morphology

1 Introduction: Thinking Model

It’s universally recognized that thinking models vary from culture to culture. There exist varieties of thinking models which determined how and what we are thinking. Subject-object dichotomy  and the harmony between man and nature  are typical thinking models among all the models. Obviously, western and Chinese thinking models are different from each other. And western thinking model is Subject-object dichotomy, while Chinese thinking model is the harmony between man and nature. It is the difference between two thinking models that cause thinking otherness.

2 The Case Analysis 

2.1 The Story of the Case

When we watch the American dramas, we usually translate the English name into Chinese. And the translation of an American drama which named “Lie to Me” makes me ponder over the otherness of thinking models between the two cultures. The drama talked about a man who is good at analysis people’s tiny expressions and find pleasure in it. However, in China, the translated name of this TV series is “别对我撒谎”(“ Don’t Lie to Me ”) . From the negative meaning of the title, we may fall into a mistake that we should be opposed to lies. It’s apparent that the translated name is quite distinct from the original name. In addition, from the point of the original name, it makes us feel like being personally at the scene. The main sticking point is “lie”. After experiencing these lies, audiences are also faced with challenges in the drama at the same time as a role of “me”. In addition, it easily helps us realize the plots behind every lie. However, the translated name leaves us another impression that I am a victim and please do not tell lies to me. Therefore, the attention is focused on these retorts of the lies. In other words, the translated name reflects how to deal with lie instead of comprehending the story behind each lie.