Connecting 'All Lives Matter,' Climate Change Denial, and Mask Resistance

Conservative fragility bolsters narratives like “All Lives Matter” and climate change denial, much like white fragility upholds systemic racism.

Understanding White Fragility Versus Conservative Fragility

Robin DiAngelo, in her 2011 article for the International Journal of Critical Pedagogy, defines white fragility as a state where even minimal racial stress becomes unbearable, inciting reactions such as anger, fear, and guilt, as well as behaviors like argumentation or withdrawal from the situation.

For instance, a typical reaction of white fragility might be a white individual vehemently criticizing affirmative action as reverse racism in response to discussions about systemic racism. Others might resort to emotional displays that shift the focus of the conversation back to their feelings, steering away from the critical issues at hand.

White fragility ultimately serves to maintain the existing social order. By evading discussions about racism through anger or disengagement, individuals can avoid discomfort and the need for change.

In a similar vein, conservative fragility seeks to bypass the unease associated with recognizing the challenges faced by others, particularly those arising from conservative ideologies. The aim is to maintain the current state of affairs, especially when it involves making sacrifices or adjustments.

This dynamic explains why many conservatives reject the established science surrounding climate change, express outrage over the removal of controversial statues, or openly defy medical guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Case Study of Conservative Fragility

Consider the example of a Facebook discussion I initiated about the effectiveness of masks.

This single exchange is merely one of many similar interactions I've encountered over the years, reflecting a broader pattern of conservative fragility.

I shared a tweet aimed at encouraging mask usage within my community. Both a family member and a friend reacted in ways that exemplified conservative fragility.

Examining the Responses

Their comments attempted to rationalize the uncomfortable truths regarding mask efficacy. Statements like "The models were incorrect," "Here are the actual studies," and "Ignore claims that masks are effective" illustrate a refusal to acknowledge the pressing realities.

This behavior parallels a privileged individual denying the existence of systemic racism while proclaiming that discussions about it are misguided. They cling to their version of the "truth," resisting any calls for change.

The dismissals continued, with claims that COVID-19 was merely exaggerated media hype and that masks were ineffective.

Rejecting uncomfortable truths as mere fabrications is a hallmark of conservative fragility.

For years, Fox News has positioned itself as the "fair and balanced" alternative to the so-called liberal media, fostering a narrative that conservatives have eagerly adopted. This has led many to dismiss unfavorable information as mere propaganda from "lying liberals."

Despite my arguments framed around compassion and community responsibility—emphasizing that my spouse has a compromised immune system—my relative found too many inconsistencies to consider wearing a mask for the sake of others.

When I presented a New York Times graph showing that masks have been effective in other nations, the response was not one of open discussion but rather an attack on the supposed hidden motives behind mask-wearing and social distancing. They preferred risking their own health and that of others over admitting a possibility of error in their beliefs.

Even when I pointed out the consensus on mask-wearing from various sources, including conservative leaders, my relative chose to disengage rather than confront the evidence.

This marked the conclusion of our interaction, but prior to this, a different discussion on the same topic highlighted the conflict over the implications of not wearing masks.

So, if my strong response seems premature, context may clarify my perspective.

Much like a white person insisting they are not racist, my relative proclaimed that her "heart" was beyond comprehension, despite her actions revealing much about her character.

White fragility often stems from a desire to see oneself as morally upright and to be perceived as such by others. Accusations of racism provoke a defensive response.

Conversely, conservative fragility is fueled by a need to believe in one’s own superior values and knowledge, seeking validation from the external world.

When faced with evidence that challenges their principles, conservative individuals often respond with outrage directed at those presenting the information, skepticism toward experts, and a tendency to seek out fringe viewpoints that align with their existing beliefs.

I attempted to highlight that her actions spoke volumes about her values. The implications of her stance on mask-wearing affected not just our family dynamics but also broader health concerns.

Those unwilling to confront the realities of racism often project their own close-mindedness onto others.

When devoid of the "media bias" argument and confronted with undeniable facts, conservative fragility manifests as an inability to accept differing viewpoints.

"Clearly, you don't welcome opinions that challenge you," they might assert, despite having rejected every argument presented, including appeals to compassion and community safety.

This exhausting cycle has taken a toll on our relationship, but I believe it has ultimately liberated me.

The Roots of Conservative Fragility

"My decision not to wear a mask is mine," my relative declared.

Despite my attempts to illustrate how her choice impacted not only me and my family but also the broader community, conservative fragility prefers to ignore contrary evidence and absolve itself from responsibility toward others.

Modern conservative rhetoric emphasizes personal freedom and responsibility not out of genuine belief, but as a means to evade accountability for the implications of their choices.

Many conservatives resist acknowledging their privileges and the necessity for change because it challenges their comfort and the advantages they currently enjoy.

Instead, they focus on perceived grievances, such as alleged media bias or the so-called censorship of conservative voices, while insisting on their moral superiority. When confronted with failure to convince, they often withdraw from discussions altogether.

By refusing to recognize real issues, they can sidestep the need for genuine change, even regarding something as simple as wearing a mask in public.

The Impact of Conservative Fragility on Relationships

As mentioned earlier, my relative's conservative fragility has strained our relationship. However, I now view this as a positive development.

For years, this family member and others with similar views contributed little to my life. I felt compelled to maintain contact, attending family gatherings and interacting amicably while steering clear of contentious topics.

Now that their willingness to defend untenable beliefs is clear, revealing their disregard for my partner's health and our well-being, I feel liberated from the obligation to uphold these relationships.

For further insights into "conservative fragility," consider reading my previous essay on the subject.

Eric Sentell is a writing and rhetoric instructor at Southeast Missouri State University. He is the author of How to Write an Essay like an Equation and Become Your Own Fact-Checker. For more information, visit www.ericsentell.com.