Idealism and materialism are not mutually exclusive. They are mutually dependent. The starting points of the two approaches are less important than the unifying points before conclusions are reached and actions taken.
Spirituality
All people have a spirit and are guided by their spirit. The difference in the spiritual nature displayed is due to each decision made to listen to and give nutrition to the spirit's higher self and the spirit's lower self. These two represent the range of the same spirit. Those considered to be idealistic in nature are dominated by the higher self context for life as they interact with matter (the material and physical). They also use science, logic, reason, rational thought, data and other ways of knowing. Those considered to be materialistic in their nature are dominated by the lower self context for life. They do not acknowledge spirit even though they are using it unawares.* They rely on brain power as the main power.Conclusion
The history of Africans is conclusive. They used, emphasized and combined these two approaches as evidenced by all the rational thinking that led to calendars, sciences and spiritual practices brought forth through Africans and in use worldwide in one form or another. In all groups of people there are idealists and materialists. We must not limit ourselves by choosing one or the other, instead we must combine the best of both approaches. Just as with spirit and matter, one without the other is incomplete and so it must be with the idealist and materialist. One thing is certain: we cannot use the same thinking that got us into a situation to get us out of it. In other words, we cannot use the same set of spiritual and material values we have been using. If we stick with the same set of values we must at least rearrange them, otherwise we will only get more and less of the same. Sumthins' gotta change.*Therefore, everyone is spiritual.
