Tourists or pigs

This interview with Breton sociologist Ronan Le Coadic explores contemporary challenges facing Brittany. Le Coadic discusses how tourism creates tension with farming, with locals saying “either tourists or pigs” as rural areas are sanitized for visitors while farmers struggle economically. He examines English residents who increasingly isolate themselves rather than integrating locally.
A central theme is Breton identity crisis. Le Coadic argues Bretons suffer from an inferiority complex rooted in their relationship with French identity. While ordinary Bretons express nationalist sentiments privately, they avoid political reflection about their future. Breton nationalists, though well-informed and culturally coherent, remain intellectually isolated, unable to communicate effectively with the broader population.
The decline of Catholic practice has removed a unifying social structure, though Christian values still influence Breton institutions. Le Coadic suggests Breton nationalism might eventually provide similar social cohesion, but currently lacks the political strategy and intellectual leadership needed to engage with pressing issues like the agricultural crisis.