Regarding the term 'Master'.  We are told it was a word used to describe the owner of slaves back in the 1700s to 1800s.  There are modern forms of slavery elsewhere in the world, but the word 'Master' probably isn't used. It was never the intention of any educational facility to imply slavery through use of terms like Master, Headmaster or Mistress or Mother Superior. Why pretend it can be used or interpreted that way in Canada in the 21st Century? It is possible Prof. Marrus was referring to how students feel about 'slaving away' on projects and schoolwork. In that context, he may have been joking when he equated 'the lash' with Master, now Head, Hugh Segal. In my experience, it is normal for Canadians to joke with each other, take playful 'digs', & practise ironic or self-deprecating humour, never intending to be malicious.  Super-sensitive vengeful behaviour is just as bad as racism of any kind or colour.  Universities are places where ideas & opinions are discussed, not shut down.