Critical Race Theory Under Fire: "White Fragility" Author Accused of Plagiarism

Prominent author Robin DiAngelo, known for her work on "White Fragility," faces allegations of plagiarism after a complaint filed with the University of Washington found numerous instances of unattributed material in her doctoral thesis. The complaint raises questions about the integrity of her research and the validity of her book, which has become a widely-discussed and controversial concept in the realm of race relations.

Seattle, WA - The University of Washington is investigating allegations of plagiarism against Robin DiAngelo, the author of the bestselling book "White Fragility." A complaint filed with the university and shared with the Washington Free Beacon alleges that DiAngelo lifted material from other papers without proper attribution in her 2004 Ph.D. thesis, "Whiteness in Racial Dialogue: A Discourse Analysis."

The complaint identifies dozens of instances where DiAngelo allegedly presented work from two Asian-American professors, Stacey Lee of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Thomas Nakayama of Northeastern University, as her own. According to Peter Wood, president of the National Association of Scholars, "It is never appropriate to use the secondary source without acknowledging it, and even worse to present it as one's own words. That's plagiarism."

Critical Race Theory Under Fire: "White Fragility" Author Accused of Plagiarism

The allegations have cast a shadow over DiAngelo's work, which has gained prominence in recent years. Her book "White Fragility" has become a popular text in racial justice workshops and diversity training programs, exploring the concept of "white fragility" as a defensive mechanism that white people engage in when confronted with discussions about race.

The book has been both praised and criticized, with some arguing that it oversimplifies complex racial issues and others finding it a valuable tool for understanding white resistance to racial equity. However, the plagiarism allegations raise questions about the integrity of DiAngelo's research and the validity of her conclusions.

Critical Race Theory Under Fire: "White Fragility" Author Accused of Plagiarism

DiAngelo's website emphasizes the importance of giving credit to minorities and promoting their work. It states: "Promote the work and services of BIPOC people. Channel work to BIPOC people. Seek out and choose BIPOC-owned businesses and service providers. Co-lead paid work with BIPOC people when possible." It also adds: "Always cite and give credit to the work of BIPOC people who have informed your thinking. When you use a phrase or idea you got from a BIPOC person, credit them."

The plagiarism allegations are reminiscent of recent cases involving Ivy League academics. In 2023, the Free Beacon reported on dozens of accusations against then-Harvard President Claudine Gay, who later resigned under mounting pressure.

Critical Race Theory Under Fire: "White Fragility" Author Accused of Plagiarism

The allegations have reignited the debate over academic integrity and the standards of scholarship. They also raise questions about the quality of research and the trust that the public can place in the work of academics.

DiAngelo has not yet publicly addressed the allegations. The University of Washington is conducting an investigation, and the outcome could have significant implications for her reputation and the future of her work.

Critical Race Theory Under Fire: "White Fragility" Author Accused of Plagiarism

In addition to the plagiarism allegations, DiAngelo has also faced criticism for her past statements on race. In a 2018 talk, she suggested that people of color should "get away from white people" as a way to protect their mental health. These comments drew widespread condemnation and accusations of perpetuating racial segregation.

The plagiarism allegations and the controversy over her statements have raised concerns about the validity and impact of DiAngelo's work. Critics argue that her research lacks rigor and that she promotes divisive and harmful ideas about race. Supporters, on the other hand, maintain that her work has sparked important conversations about race and white privilege, even if it is imperfect.

The outcome of the University of Washington's investigation remains to be seen. However, the allegations against DiAngelo have already damaged her credibility and raised questions about the future of her work in the field of race and equity.