AI will make language barriers disappear – and diminish our understanding of other cultures (opens in new tab)

Machines may soon translate every conversation flawlessly. But language is more than information – it is curiosity, intimacy and cultural discoveryOne of my earliest assignments as a young interpreter was to provide simultaneous interpretation for the proceedings of an ecumenical council that brought together all Christian denominations. As my homework, I dutifully read scripture, the gospels, papal encyclicals and the conclusion of the first council of Nicaea.There was, however, one thing I ...