Malcolm - it isn't necessarily true that the simplest explanation is, however, the ONLY explanation, but that it may be the most obvious or the surface aspect of something that can be explained on a number of different levels...all of which are integrated.

You follow? My model of the Universe says that things aren't isolated from each other, but all mutually involved at the same time.

Yours is the physical viewpoint. Mine was the metaphysical viewpoint. Why should either invalidate the other? Or claim exclusivity for itself?

This is precisely why there is no reason whatsoever for the scientific mind to necessarily be at loggerheads with the spiritualist, the religionist, or the philosopher...providing they all keep an open and inquiring attitude toward life, and combine their various talents.

The direction "left" has always been associated with the mysterious or hidden (occult) aspects of life...the non-physical...while the direction "right" has been associated with the outward tactile aspects of life...the physical. And that supports both your position and mine.

Physical things are WAY more obvious, and easier to "grasp" (one might say) than non-physical things, so you're right....it IS easier to throw salt over one's left shoulder...for most people. This doesn't necessarily invalidate a spiritual aspect to the situation, which is reflected in the physical structure of the body. Most spiritual traditions assert that the body is built (and maintained until physical death) by the intelligent, constant, and purposeful action of spirit, and that the body's form is a reflection of the spirit that creates it, and envelopes it. Indeed, if spirit exists, how could it be otherwise?

- LH