Why do we need to account for relativity to describe spin-orbit coupling I am struggling to understand why one has to rely on relativity to explain spin-orbit coupling.
In fact, I always thought that the very nature of spin arises when one includes relativity into the Schrödinger equation. While it is true that spin naturally arises from Dirac's equation, I also read that alternative non-relativistic quantum formalism such as the Lévy-Leblond equation are able to describe the "emergence" of spin. Consequently, the spin is a purely quantum property and one does not need to rely on relativity to explain its nature. 
However, the spin-orbit coupling is always refereed to as a relativistic effect. What I dont understand is that, since spin and (orbital) angular motion are non-relativistic and spin-orbit operator can be expressed based on classical argument, we still call spin-orbit a relativistic effects. 
Although I understand that accounting for relativity is needed to FULLY describe the SO coupling, why is it so difficult to find a clear explanation that separates the classical part from the relativistic one.
I have to emphasis that I am chemist, working in the field of quantum chemistry. As such I have, for example, only little knowledge about representation theory. Hence, I am more seeking for an "intuitive" (if that is possible when mixing quantum theory and relativity ...) explanation. However I have some good understanding of quantum mechanics in general and some basic knowledge of (special) relativity.          
 A: Yes, you can just say an electron has a (quantised) magnetic moment as an observed fact, without involving Dirac or relativity.
As the electron orbits the nucleus of an atom it sees an electric field which keeps it in orbit. Hence (if you like) the Bohr model. But the spin is not affected by the electric field, as it's a magnetic effect. In the frame of the atom there is just a Coulomb (or screened Coulomb)  electric field.  So no spin orbit coupling...
... except that if the electron is travelling fast, then in the frame of the electron the nuclear electric field is transformed into a mixture of electric and magnetic fields. The magnetic field (there because of relativity) couples to the magnetic moment/spin direction, hence spin-orbit coupling.   
A: I'm not sure if this answers your question properly, but the spin-orbit coupling can be described in non-relativistic quantum mechanics. You can add an artificial term to the Hamiltonian as described here and do the calculation. However, in relativistic Quantum mechanics this contribution appears naturally. This is probably the reason why people call it a relativistic effect, as it is intrinsically present in the Dirac equation. To arrive at the exact result you also have to take into account the Lamb shift which arises from radiative corrections in QED and could thus also be called a relativistic effect.
