Pertti Alasuutari, Academy Professor, Tampere University

Tell us briefly about your research topics and international work

For the last twenty years or so, I have studied how political models spread around the world much in the same way as fashion does. On the one hand, this creates a great opportunity, because in today’s world, global solutions to global problems can only be based on governments adopting similar solutions voluntarily, as we do not have any kind of world government. On the other hand, global fashions do not often constitute the most sensible way to organise society, nor are they backed by scientific evidence.
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Based on your vast experience, what makes Tampere an especially good location for international conferences?

According to most conference goers, the best thing about Tampere is that you can get almost everywhere on foot. Tampere is a large enough city, whilst remaining compact.

How would you describe Tampere as a city? What makes it special?

The fact that the city centre of Tampere is situated between two lakes makes it a sight to behold.