Humming: Radio Interview with Fathi M. A. Ahmed

Cairo, 5 February 2013

Fathi M. A. Ahmed was interviewed today on Youth and Sport Radio, hosted by Rada El-Gohary, where he offered an in-depth exploration of the dynamic field of translation, touching on both theoretical and practical aspects. The conversation ranged widely, yet Ahmed anchored the discussion with key insights drawn from his extensive career, particularly focusing on the Egyptian revolution and the complexities surrounding it. He emphasized the distinction between effective and ineffective dialogue, pointing out how preconceived notions can stifle open, meaningful exchanges. Ahmed argued that the danger of entering a dialogue with rigid pre-thoughts, especially on topics like the revolution, is that it shuts down the possibility of reaching a shared understanding or gaining new perspectives.

Another pivotal topic Ahmed covered was his role in completing the Arabic translation of Crimes Against Humanity by Cherif Bassiouni. He elaborated on how translating such an impactful work requires more than just linguistic skills—it demands a thorough search for background information, an understanding of legal frameworks, and an unwavering commitment to accuracy. This meticulous process mirrors his broader approach to life and his career as a legal translator, where seeking truth becomes the guiding principle.

Ahmed also discussed a significant constitutional matter in Egypt—the Arabization of sciences. He explored the constitutional mandate that requires science and education to be conducted in Arabic, highlighting the various legal and logistical challenges that complicate this endeavor. While acknowledging the importance of preserving the Arabic language, he also touched on the global pressures that make this process difficult, especially in fields dominated by English terminology.

In reflecting on his personal philosophy, Ahmed stressed the importance of humility—remaining open to learning from others, including students. He underscored that true growth, both personally and professionally, comes from listening and being receptive to new ideas. According to Ahmed, humility in life is not just a virtue but a necessary condition for success.

One of the more philosophical points Ahmed made during the interview was the danger posed by disagreements over basic concepts like democracy. He explained that such disagreements can fracture societies, making it impossible to reach consensus on more complex issues. He underscored the need for dialogue that is based on an agreement on foundational principles, as only then can society move forward constructively.