An Unlikely Alliance: A Dairy Farmer and a Philosopher Unite on the Future of French Agriculture
In the midst of the agricultural crisis that rocked France in 2024, an unlikely alliance emerged between a Breton dairy farmer, Véronique Le Floc’h, and a renowned writer-philosopher, Michel Onfray. United by their shared concerns about the future of French farming, they released a thought-provoking book of interviews entitled "Entendez-vous dans nos campagnes" (Hear Us in Our Countryside), published by Éditions du Plénitre.
A Cry for Change
The book serves as a clarion call for a revolutionary change in France’s agricultural model. Le Floc’h and Onfray argue that the current system is unsustainable, both economically and environmentally. They decry the industrialization of farming, which has led to a decline in small-scale agriculture and a loss of biodiversity.
"We need to move away from this productivist logic that prioritizes quantity over quality," says Le Floc’h. "We need to focus on sustainable farming practices that respect the environment and preserve our natural resources."
Onfray echoes these sentiments, emphasizing the need for a more humane approach to agriculture. "We cannot treat animals as mere commodities," he argues. "They are sentient beings who deserve to be treated with respect."
The Roots of Rural Discontent
Le Floc’h and Onfray trace the origins of agricultural discontent in France to the post-war period, when the government implemented policies that favored large-scale industrial farming. This led to a decline in the number of small farms and a loss of local food sovereignty.
"Farmers have been marginalized and left behind in recent decades," says Onfray. "They feel disconnected from decision-makers and abandoned by the state."
A Vision for the Future
In "Entendez-vous dans nos campagnes," Le Floc’h and Onfray propose a vision for a more sustainable and equitable agricultural system. They call for a shift towards agro-ecology, the practice of farming in harmony with nature. They also advocate for the development of local food systems that reduce food miles and support local farmers.
"We need to re-establish a connection between consumers and producers," says Le Floc’h. "People need to know where their food comes from and who produced it."
Onfray emphasizes the importance of education and awareness-raising. "We need to teach people about the challenges facing our farmers and the importance of eating locally and sustainably," he says.
A Call to Action
Le Floc’h and Onfray conclude their book with a call to action. They urge citizens, politicians, and policymakers to work together to create a more sustainable and equitable agricultural system. They believe that it is essential for the future of France and the well-being of its citizens.
"We are at a crossroads," says Le Floc’h. "We can either continue down the path of industrial agriculture, which will ultimately lead to the destruction of our environment and the loss of our rural communities. Or we can choose a different path, a path that is sustainable, equitable, and humane."
"Entendez-vous dans nos campagnes" is a powerful and timely book that offers a much-needed perspective on the future of French agriculture. It is a clarion call for change that should be heard by all who care about the future of food and farming.
