  We review the twistor approach to the Zhang-Hu theory of the four-dimensional
Quantum Hall effect. We point out the key role played by the group Spin(4,4),
as the symmetry group of the boundary. It is argued that this group, which
ignores the square root of minus one used in relativity and quantum mechanics,
is the focal point of a primordial theory, one where the Cartan concept of
triality is paramount, from which the standard theories emerge via a series of
phase transitions of the Zhang-Hu fluid. An important role will be played by
the Jordan cross-product algebras, particularly the exceptional Jordan algebra
associated to the split octaves and by the associated Freudenthal phase space.
The geometry and Hamiltonian theory of these spaces is examined in detail. A
possible link to the theory of massive particles is outlined.
