3.6

Douglas Portmore

Philosophy - Arizona State University

3.6
Quality
3.1
Difficulty
63%
Would Retake
106
Reviews
3.6
Quality
3.1
Difficulty
3.5
Helpful
3.7
Clarity

63%

Would Retake

106

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

33

4

37

3

19

2

13

1

4

What Students Say

Let me make this clear: Portmore is an OUTSTANDING philosophy professor if you are truly interested in philosophy

PHI101 - 5.0 rating

All you need is in his lecture outline

PHI101 - 4.0 rating
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

42%

Textbook Required

65%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 33 grades
Most common grades:
A- (8)
A+ (7)
A (7)
Grade Distribution
A(14)B(6)C(4)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(9)
Based on 35 reported grades
A-: 8
A+: 7
A: 7
B: 6
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (10)
Lecture heavy (10)
LECTURE HEAVY (8)
Graded by few things (7)
Test heavy (7)
Tough grader (7)
Clear grading criteria (6)
Hilarious (5)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.36 avg change
Nov
Dec
Apr
May
Jun
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

PHL101

5.0

(1)

PHI420

4.7

(3)

PHI306

4.5

(2)

PHI305

4.4

(14)

PGS101

4.0

(1)
+7 more courses
Difficulty by Course

PHL101

5.0

PHILOSOPHY101

5.0

HST305

5.0

PGS101

4.0

PHI300

4.0

Reviews (106)
4.0
2.0
PHI101
Sep 9, 2005

No Comments

3.0
5.0
PHI101
Sep 19, 2005

Gross...he is definitely not hot and he is funny, but I don't think he is a very good teacher, I don't think that I am learning as much as I could in his class and I pay attention...

5.0
3.0
PHI101
Sep 19, 2005

No Comments

5.0
5.0
PHL101
Grade: A+
Oct 20, 2005

Doug seems to be more interested in the starry heavens above him than he is in the moral law within him. 'Sup wid dat?

3.0
5.0
PHILOSOPHY101
Oct 24, 2005

tough as f***, but the guy's pretty funny

4.0
3.0
PHI101
Oct 25, 2005

The class sucks, but he makes it fun. Pretty funny, and the HW is a breeze, but the tests suck, they are essays and you need to explain and define everything or you'll get a D.

4.0
4.0
PGS101
Oct 27, 2005

The class is interesting and we have good conversations. Tests are pretty hard but if you go to office hours he is really helpful. I learn alot but you definately need to attend lectures in order to do well in this class.

4.0
3.0
PHI101
Oct 28, 2005

Very funny teacher, makes you want to go to class! Homework is very easy, but you need to read it. Also really need to go to class becuase he takes attendence, but his tests are pretty tough. Really need to pay attention in class and study, and even doing that I still am getting a B.

4.0
3.0
PHI101
Nov 15, 2006

Great teacher if you love philosophy. Dont waste your time if you dont like it. He is funny and very clear as to what he expects on the test. And the TA sections are helpful because you get one on one attention if you need it. The tests are essay,he gives you ALL the possible questions and then chooses like 4 of them.. Loved it..he knows his stuff!

3.0
4.0
PHI101
Dec 2, 2006

While the class is interesting (for me at least), you must know nearly exact definitions and arguments to do well on exams. The discussion sections help but merely attending them is no guarantee of success.

5.0
4.0
PHI305
Dec 29, 2006

This guy is hilarious. Lectures often involved hypotheticals that ended in "what if I shot you in the face?" Tests are straight from lectures; lectures are straight from the book. No nonsense guy, he wants tenure and it shows. Very available for outside help, and if you put in the work you will get what you want. I'm no PHI major but I got an A.

4.0
3.0
PHI101
Dec 31, 2006

Class is easy, all you need to do is attend the friday discussion sections with the TA's, they give you test answers. Make sure you take good notes being that they will decide how well you can study for the test.

3.0
5.0
HST305
Dec 16, 2007

His lecture style was reasonable he had lecture notes that pretty much covered all the lectures however his style was dry and did not keep me interested, his grading is extremely unfair, he grades based on what he feels your work is worth even if the answer is right, and docks points for no reason.

3.0
5.0
PHI305
Dec 18, 2007

This was an interesting class and I learned alot. He is a good teacher. "IF" you do finally catch him outside of class he is very helpful. However, I have never studied as hard for a class as I did for this one. I spent at least 8 hours on just one reading, he requires 5. Write a paper in agreement with his views or else your grade may suffer.

5.0
5.0
PHI305
Jan 15, 2008

great lectures, really engaging, makes you want to show up to class. but a *very* tough grader, midterm and final are essay q's.

3.0
5.0
PHI101
Apr 28, 2008

Do not take this class. There is way too much information and if you are just trying to fulfill your PHI credit there are so much easier classes. If you do happen to take it, DO NOT BUY THE BOOK. I never opened mine and payed $80 for it. No material from the book is on the tests. I worked so unbelievably hard to get an A.

5.0
4.0
PHI101
Dec 3, 2008

Great overall, entertaining and funny. PHI 101 only three exams, all essay, but he GIVES you like 12 possible questions in advance, then 3 will be on the test, never any surprises, all you have to do is memorize essay questions for an easy A, obvious.FYI- he talks about disproving god, free will etc, some people cud be offended, be open minded!

4.0
4.0
PHI101
Nov 2, 2009

Funniest professor; never stopped laughing. Tests based on lecture notes, all written out. DIFFICULT, but gives possible questions beforehand. If you're willing to study, this is a great class. Grade based off of only 3 exams. No cumulative final.

4.0
4.0
PHI101
Nov 11, 2009

He's a decent teacher, tends to ramble for 45 mins on random stuff. Everything is based on the lectures and attendance is MANDATORY, and you have to study for the exams otherwise you won't do well, but he gives you all the questions before hand. Don' take this class if you are easily offended, but do take it if you like to think and debate.

5.0
2.0
PHI101
Nov 12, 2009

One of the best professors that I have ever had. He encourages you think critically and question everything that you take for truth. Class isn't mandatory, since the class is very large but if you go to the class, pay attention and study a little bit you will do fine. I have scored a B on all of the exams but he curves, so I have an A plus. Reccome

5.0
3.0
PHI101
Nov 17, 2009

Doug is a fabulous teacher. He has been the best ASU professor I have had yet. His tests can be hard, but you just have to study. He gives you all the possible exam questions prior to taking the test. I didnt't like Philosophy prior to this class, and now I want to take classes that he teaches.I would recommend this class!!

2.0
4.0
PHI101
Dec 2, 2009

Ok teacher but a useless class. He will make you feel stupid if you ask for some help. He doesn't like it if you disagree with him, kind of childish. I wouldn't waste your time with this class. The TA's were NOT helpful infact they cancelled thier office hours most of the time. I used to have interest in this subject and i now dislike it! good luck

2.0
5.0
PHI101
Dec 7, 2009

do not take this class

2.0
5.0
PHI101
Dec 9, 2009

pointless material talks so long and makes it seem like his opinion is the only right one if you ask questions or question his opinion he will make you feel dumb and wish you hadnt asked the question. lectures are long too. make sure you study b/c his TA are hard graders.

3.0
5.0
PHI101
Dec 10, 2009

Thought it was going to be interesting, and it was, but the teacher is horrible. He always has to be right and ignores any good point that someone brings up. His tests are extremely difficult and he wants you to have exact wording for everything. I found even with studying, and being an A student that I would do well, but I was wrong. Do not take!

4.0
1.0
PHI101
Jan 2, 2010

Very intelligent professor that opened my eyes. He is funny, knows his stuff, and keeps you interested. Three exams only and they are a piece of cake. Didn't study much. Very recommended!

5.0
4.0
PHI305
Jan 4, 2010

Professor Portmore is one of the best professors I have ever had. If you want to learn Ethics, take his class. He is funny, helpful, clear, and talented. It is clear that he really enjoys teaching. If you are looking for an easy A, do not bother--it takes some serious studying. An A is definitely possible though; I almost got an A+.

4.0
4.0
PHI101
Jan 8, 2010

He is an extremely intelligent man. The examples used to explain concepts could be worded better, but he gets his point across. The tests aren't hard if you GO TO CLASS and use the lecture notes on the study guide. The curves are very generous. It isn't that he always has to be right; he is just more logical than any undergrad could hope to be :P

5.0
5.0
PHI305
Apr 12, 2010

Prof is brilliant, best i've had at ASU, almost seems like he belongs in a better PHI arena. Class is not easy as it is demanding, but if you do read the book, the lectures make sense to a logical, rational, intelligent mind. The Ethical Theory class is not meant for non PHI people...

5.0
4.0
PHI420
May 11, 2010

Even when talking about the driest of issues, Doug manages to be both entertaining and clear. You can tell he really knows his stuff. He can be a strict grader (especially when it comes to papers), but he's definitely not unfair. I'd recommend him to any student who is genuinely interested in philosophy.

5.0
3.0
PHI105
May 14, 2010

He tries to relate every moral theory to teen sex or drugs. Like to talk about inappropriate subjects, and then attempts to tie them in to the lecture. It was really distracting. Other than that, he did a good job presenting the material.

5.0
2.0
PHI105
May 16, 2010

Great professor. Class is pretty straight forward, he gives you the lecture outline and exam questions. Only take 3 exams all semester. Very fair grader and very knowledgeable on the subject. Only complaint would be that he can act immature at times when students ask questions.

5.0
2.0
PHI105
May 23, 2010

Portmore makes the subject matter amusing and explains key concepts clearly. At times, there seems to be too much explanation of simple concepts and the class pace slows. There are three short-answer tests. The possible questions are provided ahead of time and the correct answers are given in lecture. There is no excuse for doing poorly.

5.0
3.0
PHI105
May 29, 2010

Great teacher. Tough class but that might just be cause I'm a freshmen. Eitherway, he's funny and refreshing, has good office hours and I recommend going to class because he goes over fine details on the subject in class.

4.0
3.0
PHI101
Aug 16, 2010

Great prof, he knows his stuff. Class is definatelysuggested if you want to know what the blanks are in the notes. If you are a good memorizer or can support your opinion then you willget an A. Keeps lecture entertaining and thought provoking.

4.0
4.0
PHI101
Oct 19, 2010

Awesome professor. He is very entertaining and it is easy to pay attention. GO TO CLASS! He has his power points available to download but they are missing key parts that he reveals during class. Tests are very hard, but overall great class.

4.0
1.0
PHI105
Oct 28, 2010

This class is super easy if you study the study guides. His guides are fill in the blank from the lecture notes, and contain answers to questions on the tests. No HW/Papers/Etc. Just three easy tests. He's funny too!

1.0
4.0
PHI101
Nov 25, 2010

This class is a joke. Honest to GOD he is the least engaging teacher I have ever had. He acts like a child trying to prove his own point and embarrassing students for having their own opinions and viewpoints. TAKE ANOTHER CLASS you will never want to go to class.

4.0
3.0
PHI101
Dec 19, 2010

This class is so boring. I suggest keeping your comments to yourself unless you want to be embarrassed by the professor in front of the whole class. You have to study for the tests a lot if you expect to get a good grade.

4.0
2.0
PHI305
Dec 19, 2010

Doug is a very personable teacher. He uses personal examples in class to illustrate difficult concepts, and he is always down-to-earth. Occasionally, he is a bit harsh in his responses to students. But I thoroughly enjoyed his class, and I would gladly take him again.

3.0
4.0
PHI101
Jan 9, 2011

The class is interesting, if you like or are intrigued by the subject. The tests are pretty tough, you need to go to lectures to get the notes and its a lot to study before each test. My suggestion: Don't cram! if you go over your notes every week or so, you should be okay to go over ur notes once before each test. Only 3 100 pt. tests for grade!!

4.0
4.0
PHI101
Mar 4, 2011

Dr. Portmore really knows his stuff. He's not an easy teacher by any means, but he provides all the resources to be successful in class, including ALL possible exam questions beforehand. He has a tendency to humiliate students when they make comments in class. You must attend class, take notes, and STUDY. I recommend him if you like a challenge.

5.0
4.0
PHI305
May 2, 2011

Doug is an extremely nice guy and goes above and beyond what is expected of him as a Professor. He frequently makes extra time for students, which is more than I can say for some professors. Be cautious though, if you are lazy and looking for an easy A, this is not the class for you. It's a rather demand class, but well worth the effort.

5.0
4.0
PHI101
Mar 11, 2012

Portmore is a great Professor! Made lectures as easy as to understand as possible, gave exam questions ahead of time, and tried to lighten the subject up with humor. Class attendance is a must! Tests are difficult; lots of info! Must keep up studying in order to do well. TA's are nitpicky graders too. Also, he kinda looks like Jerry Seinfeld...

4.0
2.0
PHI101
Apr 16, 2012

Portmore is one of the best professors I have ever had. It's a somewhat tough class for 100 level, but very interesting. As a PHI major, this is a great intro class because it introduces you to a lot of new stuff without being overwhelming or incredibly dry. Students who hate PHI fail, but I never understood why they take it in the first place...

5.0
2.0
PHI105
Apr 16, 2012

Portmore is awesome. Funny guy, very engaging lectures. I definitely loved going to his classes, every time. Very straight forward layout to the class, if you attend class and fill out the powerpoints (so easy) then you truly have EVERYTHING you need to Ace the exams. A is attainable if you study and go to class.

5.0
2.0
PHI305
Apr 16, 2012

Portmore is the man. This class is a bit harder, with the usual Portmore essay exams based 100% off of his very clear and organized lectures. Just come to class to fill out the missing portions of his Powerpoints that he provides, enjoy the engaging lectures and discussions, and seek help if you need it. You should definitely get an A that way.

2.0
1.0
PHI101
Sep 6, 2012

I just dropped this class. You would think that a class that is called 'intro to philosophy' might introduce you to philosophy.Nope! Within 3 classes, I realized that I would only be introduced to obtuse arguing. No Plato, no Aristotle, no Aquinas. Just the teacher spouting off and calling those who disagree, idiots. I can get that on the internet.

5.0
2.0
PHI101
Oct 23, 2012

Doug is an excellent professor! As long as you GO to class, it's impossible to fail. Don't forget office hours either. Lecture can be pointless at times, but an easy A or B if you put an hour of your own time in per week.

4.0
3.0
PHI305
Nov 9, 2012

Dr. Portmore is funny and helpful. He's willing to explain something for as long as necessary until people get it, which is good for a philosophy class with confusing concepts. You have pop in-class quizzes, 2 tests, and a term paper. Of course, there will be those people in class who just have to keep arguing, but overall, it's enjoyable.

4.0
1.0
PHI101
Nov 21, 2012

Very easy class, memorize the answers to the test(WHICH HE GIVES) and it is an easy A. Who ever fails this, needs serious help. Even the content is easy to understand:)TAKE IT IF YOU WANT EASINESS+INTERESTING!

4.0
2.0
PHI101
Dec 8, 2012

PHI 101 was extremely easy to pass. His notes are online (but redacted). The BlackBoard tests and exams are extremely easy, especially since he gives you the questions word for word and the answers are in the notes. The class does not really talk about typical philosophy topics, mainly about the existence of God and mortality.

5.0
1.0
PHI101
Dec 17, 2012

Portmore is a great teacher. He is engaging in class and is a very funny guy. I would suggest this class to any lover of philosophy. Just make sure you memorize the notes and go to class and you should get an A.

3.0
5.0
PHI305
Dec 18, 2012

2 exams. 1 (10 pg) paper . 5 quizzes. The guy knows his stuff but he is arrogant. Dont expect to discuss topics, for clarification, unless your understanding is on his level. Youll pass if you show up and do the work. He does make adjustments. Ex)half the class failed the mid-term and he offered a make-up. And changed the final from closed to open.

5.0
4.0
PHI305
Dec 24, 2012

Interesting and funny lectures; exams aren't terribly difficult; grades term papers with relatively high standards. He's a stickler for precise language, so make sure to be attentive to how you phrase things.

4.0
1.0
PHI101
Dec 24, 2012

This class is incredibly easy if you go to class. He gives you the answers to every test and exam as long as you're there or stay after. There is no excuse to get less than an A.

2.0
1.0
PHI101
Jan 2, 2013

If you are good at memorizing you will get an easy A (I did and I learned nothing). Do not take this class if you want to be entertained in all honesty the best thing to do is download a game on your computer to play in between filling in the blanks on the notes that he provides.

2.0
3.0
PHI101
Jan 14, 2013

he is a good teacher and i thought the class was interesting, at least the topics he would lecture about. The book he said was mandatory really isn't, he goes over it in detail in class. MAKE SURE TO FILL IN THE REDACTED. also go to the review sessions, he gives all the answers.

5.0
1.0
PHI101
Feb 14, 2013

EASY A CLASS. get this class (with your friends) and by saying that because one of you just have to show up on class to fill the redacted parts then answer the Possible Exam Quistions and he literally copy and paste those questions on tests! 3 in-class tests and top 5 of 6 BB tests.

3.0
2.0
PHI101
Feb 28, 2013

Portmore's class is an "OK" class. He isn't all that interesting as a person. His class is not hard if you pay attention to all the REDACTED parts and understand the examples as he uses them on the 4 exams (& 6 Blackboard quizzes). Definitely an interesting class...although he is somewhat arrogant. GO TO OFFICE HOURS -- will help you get an A!

5.0
1.0
PHI306
Mar 22, 2013

Portmore is a very good teacher, I learnt a lot!

4.0
1.0
PH101
Nov 14, 2013

Really easy class to pass. He puts the lectures online with certain portions redacted. There are 6 BlackBoard quizzes which he gives you the questions to ahead of time and you get multiple attempts. The exam questions are also posted online, which are taken directly from the notes, so it's almost impossible not to do well.

4.0
1.0
PHI305
Nov 26, 2013

Like everyone else said, just go to class and fill in the REDACTED stuff. Didn't really learn anything - he just makes a bunch of arguments against the stuff he disagrees with. All you need to do for quizzes, tests, and papers is to reword what he says in the notes. Full of himself, pompous, and talks about being an atheist in every single class.

2.0
3.0
PHI101
Mar 11, 2014

This class sucked. The most boring lecture class I have ever taken. The material was confusing and I was completely uninterested. No one actually pays attention in class. Only passed because he allows you to take a page of notes into the test.

5.0
3.0
PHI305
Apr 24, 2014

Great professor, great class

2.0
4.0
PHI101
May 1, 2014

Im going to be honest. This class sucks, the lectures are hard to stay awake in the teacher can NEVER be wrong. The tests are ridiculous, short answer questions. I advise to not take this class.

3.0
4.0
PHI101
May 6, 2014

Okay, this class was both good and bad. It was good because he let you have a cheat sheet and it was bad because it is extremely boring and you have to be in class to get the notes for your cheat sheet.

4.0
1.0
PHI101
Grade: A-
May 13, 2014

All you need is in his lecture outline. Don't buy the textbooks. He lets you have 1 notebook paper front/back each test. He gives you the answers to the questions at the end of every lecture. I took notes, did the lecture quizzes, & just made my sheet & passed easy. It was hard listening to him talk so brash about God but my faith wasn't shaken.

3.0
4.0
PHI305
Oct 27, 2014

Coming from a senior.. His class was basically designed to argue for his point of view, and be scared if you disagree with him (strange for a philosophy course). He picked favorites, would not explain anything except simply restate the slides, and was disrespectful to my friend during office hours. I will never take a class with him again.

5.0
1.0
PHI101
Grade: A+
Nov 12, 2014

Let me make this clear: Portmore is an OUTSTANDING philosophy professor if you are truly interested in philosophy. Many people dislike him because this class's purpose is to argue against things that people are very defensive about, such as God and free will, but THAT IS PHILOSOPHY. He clearly explains the arguments. He made me into a PHI major.

3.0
4.0
PHI101
Grade: A
Feb 3, 2015

The course itself seems relatively easy (its a 101, aka beginner), however the ideas in Philosophy are much more complex than it is made out to be. Especially the first chapter (cogency, soundness, validity, etc); I dreaded going to class because Doug was of no help and made it even more confusing, and tried to cover it up by failing at being funny

5.0
1.0
PHI101
Grade: A+
Apr 8, 2015

Four exams, 20% each. 6 Blackboard tests (infinite tries)12%, and Top Hat points for 8%. The exams are easy, since the questions are taken straight from the Blackboard tests and essay questions are given out beforehand. He's an entertaining-enough lecturer, and Philosophy's an interesting subject. Never really offensive, despite what others say.

3.0
5.0
PHI101
May 7, 2015

The hardest class I've ever taken. Not because of Portmore, but the subject in general is extremely confusing and complex. It's one of those classes where you understand the material in class, but once you leave- it's gone. Portmore was a good professor though, not much homework and lectures were funny.

4.0
3.0
PHI101
Grade: B
May 5, 2016

Two things: Finishing blackboard test, going to his office in office hour. You should be fine.

2.0
3.0
PHI101
Jul 14, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Blackboard tests and exams are straightforward, you know exactly what will be on them. Content is confusing but you know exactly what to study. I didn't take much away from this class but it was an easy A.

4.0
3.0
PH101
Oct 13, 2017
Would take again

Very kind and friendly. I found the class a little hard, but not impossible. Show up and pay attention and you should be fine.

Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
PHI101
Grade: B
Oct 23, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Content was very confusing, and I don't think that he taught the material well. Students are able to ask questions, but normally, the answer is short and quick. Blackboard test are fine and they help you on the exam. If you miss a class, you don't get the answers to the power points which make them pointless.

Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
2.0
PH101
Grade: A
Dec 9, 2017
Would take again

Something I noticed that a lot of students didn't take advantage of was the fact that in the lecture before the test, HE GIVES YOU THE ANSWERS TO THE FREE RESPONSE TEST QUESTIONS. Don't zone out during this lecture, write the answers down and practice writing them out before the exams. Do this and the blackboard quizzes you'll probably get an A.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
PHI101
Grade: A+
Jan 2, 2018
Would take again

At first, I really hated this class because it was hard for me to understand what he was talking about, but then I realized that you just have to memorize all the free response question answers (which he gives you the class prior to the exam.) I also took the blackboard tests a lot to make sure I memorized all the answers. LOTS OF MEMORIZING!!!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
3.0
PHI101
Grade: B
Jan 9, 2018
Would take again

Has readings but not really necessary. Subject is tedious depending on if you like it or not, but he makes it interesting and easy to understand. Blackboard tests have the same questions are the exam (chooses from a bank for test) and if you pay attention he basically answers the short answer questions in lecture. Really repetitive.

Tests? Not many
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
PHI101
Grade: A+
Feb 15, 2018
Would take again

Really great professor and tells you exactly how to succeed in the class. Basically you just take 5 online BB quizzes (unlimited attempts) and then 3 exams. He also tells you exactly what will be on the exams, and while the material is not the easiest, it's interesting, and really gets you to think. Not the easiest A ever, but its a cool class.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
2.0
PHI101
Grade: A
Feb 23, 2018
Would take again

Attendance is optional. Only half of the class showed up, except for exams. The only reason to go to class is to get the notes that aren't on the powerpoint and participate in class discussion, both of which are helpful. He's pretty chill and the class is fairly easy. He sometimes isn't very clear, but if you just ask him to clarify you'll be fine.

Skip class? You won't pass.
4.0
3.0
PHI101
Feb 26, 2018
Would take again

Don't make the mistake of skipping class on his review days before a test, since he straight up tells you the questions he will ask and the answers he will want. The course material was sometimes difficult to understand, but do the quizzes on Blackboard and take notes in reviews and you'll do fine.

Clear grading criteria
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
4.0
PHI101
Grade: A+
May 4, 2018
Would take again

Although attendance is not mandatory - you should definitely go as he gives you the answers to the study guides that will be on the exam. If you do the study guides and the blackboard tests (unlimited attempts), the exam should be a piece of cake.

Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
1.0
PHI105
Grade: A
Feb 21, 2019
Would take again

This professor is amazing. The tests are verbatim the study guide, and even if you don't show up for class, he is absolutely willing to help you through the study guide. It helps to show up for class though, Portmore explains concepts in class. Readings are quite helpful but not mandatory.

Respected
Accessible outside class
Clear grading criteria
2.0
4.0
PHI101
Grade: B
Nov 13, 2019
Wouldn't take again

DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS. This classs structure is nuts. He only has 4 exams making up the whole grade book, so each is worth 25% of your grade. No extra credit either. He does give you study guides but theyre not what you think. The material is very hard to follow. Be prepared to memorize A LOT of information. Only class I dont have an A in.

Graded by few things
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
PHI101
Grade: C
Dec 5, 2019
Wouldn't take again

just show up to the review days and go to his office hours & he'll give you the answers to the study guides. his lectures are confusing and it's a hard class but easy to get a C in and Cs get degrees.

Accessible outside class
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
4.0
3.0
PHI101
Grade: C
Dec 7, 2019
Would take again

The entire grade is based on 4 tests. No other assignments. Just 4 tests. A study giude is provided.

Test heavy
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
3.0
3.0
PH101
Grade: A
Dec 9, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Exam questions are copy and pasted from the study guide. He bases his curriculum on the study guide answers, and gives the answers during class. It is hard to keep up sometimes because he goes on a lot of tangents. TAs help fix your study guide answers/give you the right answers in office hours. Get your answers checked and study and you'll be fine

Graded by few things
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
PHI101
Grade: A-
Dec 18, 2019
Wouldn't take again

This class was my least favorite freshman year but I got an A through hard work and then a miracle at the end. Show up to class if you wanna pass because there are only 4 tests and that's it. The tests are basically the study guide questions so pay very close attention and go to office hours to get them checked to make sure they are right.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
PHI101
Grade: B+
Feb 18, 2020
Would take again

This class's grading system is very exam heavy. Make sure you go to the TA office hours to complete the study guides WITH them to make sure you know what wording to use on the exam because when I took this class, the TA's were very particular. The professor is really nice and funny though. The study guides are also EXACTLY like the test.

Respected
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
4.0
3.0
PHI337
Grade: A
Dec 9, 2020
Would take again

No complaints. Exams are pretty straightforward, answer the questions clearly and carefully. Be sure to participate. He is more than willing to spend time going over confusing topics if you ask.

Participation matters
Graded by few things
Caring
4.0
4.0
PHI337
Grade: A
Dec 9, 2020
Would take again

Portmore, for better or worse, is very good at inciting discourse. Topics are difficult in this class. Prof. will step on your beliefs, without being too offensive. He is abrasive, so might rub you the wrong way, but very intelligent. 3 written take home exams (55%), 5 homework assignments (33%), attendance/participation (12%). Grades fairly.

Lecture heavy
Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
3.0
4.0
PHI337
Grade: A-
Dec 9, 2020
Wouldn't take again

The class is very boring, but Portmore is definitely smart. My only issue with this class was his lack of direction prior to the first exam. If you did mediocre or even got a high B+ on the first exam and As on the next two it is impossible to get an A in the class which is a bit ridiculous

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
PHI420
Grade: Audit/No Grade
Dec 2, 2021
Would take again

Professor Portmore is a great professor and I loved his classes. His lectures are always engaging and incredibly informative. What's great about Portmore is that he is incredibly well read on the class topics. Take advantage of his office hours and the feedback he gives you and you'll get a good grade.

Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
PHI337
Grade: Not sure yet
May 3, 2022

DO NOT TAKE HIS CLASSES!!! I have never felt the need to write a review on here until I took his class. All he does is boring horrible lectures and he makes way too many uncomfortable references. I have never had a professor care so little about his students or his job before. He never once responded to my emails or showed any sign that he cared

Tough grader
1.0
4.0
PHI105
Grade: C+
May 5, 2022

Never posted a single rubric, just examples. I have followed the material to a T for all the exams and haven't managed to crack a B. The lectures are borderline uncomfortable sometimes. To me it just seems like he's trying too hard to be as edgy as can be. It's literally an ethics class why was he talking about orgasms at one point.

Tough grader
Participation matters
So many papers
4.0
4.0
PHI300
Grade: A+
Dec 13, 2022
Would take again

I liked him a lot, you don't have individual grades but rather an overall grade and he allowed for many revisions on your assignments. He's intimidating at first but really nice one-on-one. Portmore is clear on expectations and explains without judgment. Totally recommend. Your grade nine assignments, attendance, participation, and effort.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
4.0
3.0
PHI306
Grade: B
Dec 15, 2022
Would take again

Portmore is a lovely man. I enjoyed just being in his presence. Class isn't structured as debate but as analyzing philosophers' arguments. Assignments were thoroughly critiqued but graded on the higher end. @ home exams with questions from lectures, he often gave answers in class. Lectures could drag but Portmore adds fun commentary + is very sweet

Lots of homework
Caring
Accessible outside class
5.0
2.0
PHI105
Grade: A-
Apr 14, 2023
Would take again

Dr. Portmore was fantastic when I took his class in Spring 2022. I even did an honors contract with him which was a simple, short essay on the trolley problem. His lectures were always funny and engaging. His passion for philosophy was clear, and he really cared about getting us to understand the material.

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
Hilarious
3.0
3.0
PHI337
Grade: A-
Nov 1, 2023

Doug seems like a great guy, but I think he just likes to listen to himself speak. Be prepared for lots of confusion and lack of motivation, especially if you're just taking this class for a humanities credit. If you actually try, you'll get a good grade. I will never use what I learned in this class ever again.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
PHI420
Grade: A-
Dec 27, 2024
Would take again

This is the 2nd class I've taken with Portmore and I'm glad I did. He's very helpful one on one and is direct both in person + grading. I could've done without a lot of his personal stories in lecture but I know he was trying to make the 3hrs bearable. 3 major essays for UG w/ allowed rewrites and early outline submission + 70 attendance points.

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
5.0
3.0
PHI105
Grade: A-
Apr 16, 2025
Would take again

Attend the lectures frequently, he gives all the answers to the exams, and even gives a curve to those who attend his lectures. This course is mainly exam-heavy; there's no homework or assignments. His lectures are fun and he keeps it entertaining.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
4.0
3.0
PHI105
Grade: B
May 12, 2025
Would take again

I was fighting demons not to get a C and I didn't get a C. The biggest thing is that Professor Portmore's PHI 105 Class is made up of 4 exams. I actually didn't do great on the first one, but he gave extra credit for all the exams. Attendence is probably most important, even though not mandatory, I struggled with some topics having skipped.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
3.0
PHI105
Grade: C
Jun 3, 2025

Terrible attitude from the prof. Lecture not mandatory, but necessary since examples are used in exams VERBATIM. 4 exams as ur grade. Doesn't grade exams himself- TA's are harsh graders & reject the prof's own examples. Going to office hours feels like a waste. Lectures consist of slides with huge paragraphs. Prof contradicts himself constantly.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
2.0
4.0
PHI105
Grade: A-
Dec 15, 2025

My mind hurt every time I went to class, maybe philosophy isn't for me, but some of the topics were just confusing and weird. Whole grade depends on the exams.

Test heavy
Graded by few things
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

42%

Textbook Required

65%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 33 grades
Most common grades:
A- (8)
A+ (7)
A (7)
Grade Distribution
A(14)B(6)C(4)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(9)
Based on 35 reported grades
A-: 8
A+: 7
A: 7
B: 6
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (10)
Lecture heavy (10)
LECTURE HEAVY (8)
Graded by few things (7)
Test heavy (7)
Tough grader (7)
Clear grading criteria (6)
Hilarious (5)
Rating Trend

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Ratings by Course

PHL101

5.0

(1)

PHI420

4.7

(3)

PHI306

4.5

(2)

PHI305

4.4

(14)

PGS101

4.0

(1)
+7 more courses
Difficulty by Course

PHL101

5.0

PHILOSOPHY101

5.0

HST305

5.0

PGS101

4.0

PHI300

4.0

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