> Most things described as master/slave aren't actually very well > matched by that metaphor. Source/sink, boss/worker, > dispatcher/receiver may be more accurate.
In my understanding, master/slave and boss/worker describe pretty much the same (a relationship of power asymmetry, being generous, and labor exploitation in variable degrees). Source/sink and dispatcher/receiver, on the other hand, describe a mere organization or task distribution. Depending on the case, the two first couple of metaphors, or the two lasts, would be more accurate. The white/black case seems different, because the other four couples describe well defined roles and functions, while this fifth example - when criticized - appears as a legacy or remain of the master/slave social relationship - maybe 'in disguise'. For humans, white is also full-spectrum visible light refraction, and black, full-spectrum visible light absorption - or absence of light. So, not always black-and-white (as in typography, let's say) has a necessary sociopolitical connotation, I guess. Hope this has any utility. Best regards!
