Tim, thanks for your very detailed replies. When I first read about the Electric Universe, it sounded intriguing. IMO after reading the articles defending it, and your words and references debunking it, it clearly doesn't make the grade.

Although there are questions still unanswered in most theories, any counter theory needs to provide a *better* overall answer. The problem is that you often need to dig deep into each theory to see the point it changes from an interesting idea into wild and inaccurate speculation. I think that's why there is always friction between the "established" theories and the "outsiders". Most people don't have time to get an accurate understanding of all possible theories. And unfortunately in amongst the wild and wacky theories often lurks the gem that will eventually supplant the established theory.

In this case, I don't think the Electric Universe is such a gem but I've enjoyed reading up on it and speculating about whether some of it could be applicable.

So thanks to VanderL for raising the subject, and thanks to Tim for explaining the counter arguments.

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Spike
:)