There was a cool article in the WSJ today regarding current research into the smallest particles we can observe.

Scientists have been able to use a laser to "entangle" two photons. After physical separation the photons have opposing orientations that remain linked over even great distances. Change the polarity of one and the other, though it be miles away, will in the same instant change its polarity. Increase the energy level of one and the other will reduce its energy level to maintain a sympathetic balance.

The spooky implication of course is that there exists a hidden force which binds the universe, a force which, for lack of a better term, is more spiritual than physical in its nature.

(Edit) As I ponder this, I wonder if the the force has both a good side and a dark side. If there is a dark side it would explain the existence of Illinois.