How important is translation in the study of philosophy?

How important is translation in the study of philosophy?

How important is translation in the study of philosophy? It seems like, in certain areas of philosophy, precise definitions and subtle nuance can have significant impact in outcomes. I was curious how a difference in translation might affect it. One example: I have three different translations of the <I>Tao te Ching</I>, and for some of them, the same original comes out so differently one wonders what each translator thought they were reading at the outset! Another example: when I first read <I>Das Kapital</I> (in English), I was initially confused by the recurring term "means of production." Finally, it dawned on me, that term meant "technology" and serendipity! it all clicked. thank you for your consideration.

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