Today, we’re bringing you a conversation with Dr. Ian Hutchinson, professor of nuclear science and engineering at MIT’s plasma science and fusion center. In addition to him answering our questions about the very nature of that mysterious fourth state of matter, we also explored hurdles in fusion technology, pernicious problems of ideological anchoring in academic science, and the looming crisis of scientism. Our discussion was so wide-ranging that we absolutely must have Dr. Hutchinson back again! We’re particularly curious about his latest research on space weather and its impact on everyday life. Stay tuned for that one!