Discusses fundamental questions about the nature of machine translation and outlines its history. Also describes an experiment in cooperative translation called ITS (Interactive Translation System), evaluating the system's capabilities and predicting future developments. Finally, offers suggestions for translators interested in preparing to use…

Examines electronic aids to translation both as ways to automate it and as an approach to solve problems resulting from shortage of qualified translators. Describes the limitations of robotic MT (Machine Translation) systems, viewing MAT (Machine-Aided Translation) as the only practical solution and the best vehicle for further automation. (MES)