Daily Links - December 29th

The Force Awakens is the most optimistic film in a long time… on Tumblr

I've found playing Jedi in the Old Republic video game series difficult. The Jedi Code promotes intellect over emotion. But while playing the games, your protagonist develops deep emotional connections with their companions. Some of these connections become romantic relationships. The games have often encouraged these relationships through mechanics while tsk-ing them in dialogue. This article suggests that we're seeing a new side of the Force. It is an interesting thesis.

#ORUSingle

Presented without comment.

Is the Big 12 on the Verge of Major Change?

College conference realignment continues to intrigue me. Massive institutions of higher learning playing musical chairs because of their athletics departments. Granted, there are billions of dollars at stake. But that money is often a drop in the pond compared to their endowments. Four of the five major conferences are secure in their positions. This article examines the fifth, the Big12.