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Short abstract:

The application of the STS approach in China is demonstrated in Li Shanlan's translation of the Outline of Astronomy in the Qing Dynasty, where the triple conditions of socio-economic, personal factors, and socio-historical conditions jointly shaped his translation activities.

Long abstract:

This paper argues that although the STS methodology was only formalized in modern times, some STS approach was found to be applied in China during the activities of Li Shanlan's translation of the Compendium of Astronomy. He made the foreign text conform to Chinese values according to the intention of traditional Chinese culture. Therefore, this paper explores the influence of three factors on Li Shanlan's translation activities.

Firstly, socio-economic conditions played a crucial role in Li Shanlan's decision to translate Outline of Astronomy. During the foreign affairs movement (Qing Dynasty), China faced an influx of scientific knowledge from the West, providing Li Shanlan with an opportunity to translate the work. Secondly, personal factors were also significant. As an individual with translation skills and an interest in science, Li Shanlan's personal inclinations, combined with the social background, propelled his translation activities. Lastly, social-historical conditions influenced Li Shanlan's translation activities. After the Opium Wars, some intellectuals Chinese began learning Western culture, leading individuals like Li Shanlan to adopt an objective attitude towards Western science knowledge.

Above all, these factors together shaped the background and impact of Li Shanlan's translation and research. Here, Li Shanlan's translation of Outline of Astronomy is not only a translation and research, but also an important milestone in the exchange and integration of Chinese and Western cultures, which lays a solid foundation for future scientific research and academic exchanges, and is an example of the process of applying and adapting STS in China.