White Fragility

Study Guide

White Fragility is sociologist Robin DiAngelo’s exploration of a phenomenon she names “white fragility” and defines as a white person’s inability to talk about or reflect on structural racism and their role within the system without feeling attacked or becoming defensive. By identifying its roots and current manifestation within society, DiAngelo seeks to dismantle white fragility through constructive reflection and contextual understanding. White Fragility debuted at the top of the sales charts upon its release in 2018 and remained on The New York Times Bestseller List for more than a year. The events surrounding the death of George Floyd in 2020 further propelled it into the public consciousness.