I had intended to let the controversy over the Professor X article play itself out on the pages of The Argus without any intervention on my part. But I have been compelled to respond by the anguish that many faculty, particularly some female faculty, have expressed.

Healthy debate is the underpinning of a university, whether that debate takes place on the floor of Senate, in the corridors, lecture halls or offices of the academy, or in the more public realm of the media. All are entitled, indeed encouraged, to articulate their views, without the fear of ridicule or other disparagement. Whether Professor X crossed any line is open to individual interpretation. The primary point is that all are entitled to express their opinions, one hopes in a respectful way, and that includes Professor X’s supporters and detractors. Often controversy is a vehicle to facilitate a meaningful, open sharing of thoughts and thus healthy debate.

Professor X has used his/her pen (or keyboard) to castigate me in the past and I always viewed it as his/her prerogative to do so. The combination of irony, humour and pointed jabs often makes for interesting, albeit sometimes controversial, reading. At the end of this discussion I hope that everyone casts aside the heat of the moment, considers what was said and what wasn’t (but inferred in some peoples’ minds), and then be thankful that we live in a society where everyone can express their views without fear of retribution. Lakehead University, as an important symbol of our society, must be a place where we value, indeed cherish, freedom of expression. The Argus, as an independent student newspaper, has been serving its role by reporting all opinions in this situation. I believe the editor has reasonably responded to the criticism surrounding publication of the piece. It is up to others to point out their particular issues with the content. Such is the role of debate in a democratic society.

Frederick F. Gilbert

President