Comparing the English Translations of Heidegger's Being and Time: Stambaugh vs. Macquarrie and Robinson

In the study of German philosophy, particularly in the realm of phenomenology and existentialism, the work Being and Time by Martin Heidegger stands out as a monumental text. Its English translations, especially those by Richard Rojcewicz-Macquarrie (Macquarrie and Robinson) and David Farrell Krell (Stambaugh), have garnered significant attention from scholars.

Current Usage and Prevalence

Currently, in the United States, almost all university professors who teach from Being and Time utilize the Macquarrie and Robinson translation. Many scholars attribute this to the Being and Time's rich and nuanced philosophical content, which is precisely conveyed in this translation.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Translation

Stambaugh Translation: One of the primary reasons why some scholars favor the Stambaugh translation is its readability. It is considered more approachable and accessible for English readers, making it a popular choice for both students and those new to Heidegger's works. However, critics argue that it sometimes lacks the precision that is essential for a deep understanding of Heidegger's original text. This is because Stambaugh's translation aims for clarity at the expense of some of the subtlety and complexity present in the original German.

Precision vs. Clarity

The main issue with the Stambaugh translation is that it occasionally sacrifices precision for the sake of clarity. For instance, Heidegger's use of certain philosophical terms and concepts is intricately woven into his argument, and not all of these nuances are fully captured in the Stambaugh translation. Therefore, for those looking for a deeper, more precise understanding of Heidegger's philosophical arguments, the Macquarrie and Robinson translation may be more suitable.

The Need for a Fresh Translation

Despite the utility of the Macquarrie and Robinson translation, it has been over five decades since its publication, during which Heidegger's original text has undergone numerous editorial corrections and revisions. Consequently, the English translations based on earlier versions of the German text are considered outdated and may no longer reflect Heidegger's most recent and definitive intentions.

Publishing an Updated Translation

The time has come for a fresh English translation of Being and Time. This updated translation would be based on the latest German editions, incorporating all the editorial corrections and revisions. Such a translation would not only serve as an accurate representation of Heidegger's original work but also provide a more immediate and accessible version for contemporary scholars and students.

A Multi-Text Approach for Advanced Students

For serious students of Heidegger, it may be beneficial to read both the Macquarrie and Robinson translation and the Stambaugh translation. By comparing each section in both translations, one can gain a more comprehensive understanding of Heidegger's work. This multi-text approach allows students to appreciate the nuances and subtleties of Heidegger's language as well as the clarity and readability of the alternative translation.

Conclusion

Both the Macquarrie and Robinson and Stambaugh translations of Being and Time have their strengths and weaknesses. While the Macquarrie and Robinson translation is praised for its precision, the Stambaugh translation is celebrated for its accessibility. Ultimately, the choice between these two translations depends on the reader's needs and goals. For those seeking a deep, precise understanding, the Macquarrie and Robinson translation remains the standard. However, for those seeking a more accessible and readable version, the Stambaugh translation is an excellent choice.

Regardless of the translation, the study of Being and Time is a transformative journey into the depths of existential philosophy. As technology and scholarship continue to evolve, a new, updated English translation of this seminal work is necessary to ensure that the insights and ideas of Heidegger remain accessible and comprehensible to contemporary readers.