2.6

Jeremy Barris

Philosophy - Marshall University

2.6
Quality
3.7
Difficulty
19%
Would Retake
148
Reviews
2.6
Quality
3.7
Difficulty
2.8
Helpful
2.5
Clarity

19%

Would Retake

148

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official
148 total ratings

5

40

4

19

3

13

2

16

1

60

What Students Say

Took his online class

PHL201 - 1.0 rating

In the name of all that holy, if you respect yourself, don't take him

PHL201 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

14%

Textbook Required

33%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

C+

95% confidence
Based on 20 grades
Most common grades:
D (5)
Not sure yet (4)
A (3)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(3)C(5)D(9)F(0)A-/B+(1)
Based on 32 reported grades
D: 5
Not sure yet: 4
A: 3
B: 3
Common Tags
Tough grader (25)
Graded by few things (23)
Get ready to read (9)
Gives good feedback (7)
Tough Grader (5)
GRADED BY FEW THINGS (2)
Inspirational (2)
Participation matters (2)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.57 avg change
Feb
Mar
Apr
Nov
May
Sep
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

200102

5.0

(1)

PHL200

5.0

(5)

PHL410

5.0

(1)

ONECLASS

5.0

(1)

PHL465

5.0

(1)
+37 more courses
Difficulty by Course

3OFTHEM

5.0

SEMINAR

5.0

MODERNPHL

5.0

PHL204

5.0

PHLSECT

5.0

Reviews (147)
5.0
3.0
PHL201
Feb 19, 2003

No Comments

4.0
2.0
PHL340
Feb 20, 2003

Dr. Barris is great!

1.0
1.0
PHL
Feb 21, 2003

What a dolt... This guy is why philosophy majors get made fun of =)

5.0
2.0
PHL200
Feb 21, 2003

Barris rules. The class is relaxed, and he makes you think in new ways.

5.0
5.0
PHL
Feb 25, 2003

Texts are very hard to understand, but this man is like the greatest man alive!!! Love his voice!

5.0
4.0
PHL410
Feb 25, 2003

I second that Dr. Barris is a great teacher and a great person!!!

4.0
3.0
PHL201
Feb 26, 2003

Barris is a nice guy, but his choice of texts are horrible. The classroom is fun, but it's hard for people to discuss ideas since the books are so hard to understand. I would suggest taking Barris only if you really enjoy Philosophy.

1.0
1.0
PHL
Feb 26, 2003

No Comments

5.0
3.0
ONECLASS
Feb 27, 2003

A free thinker that taught us how to break out of old thinking patterns...plus he is hot!

5.0
1.0
PHI201
Feb 27, 2003

Barris is the smartest man alive!

5.0
3.0
PHL304
Mar 1, 2003

Very smart man...softspoken but effective. All philosophy reading material is difficult if it is worth reading, so to blame that on him is ignorant. He will introduce you to new ideas...I recommend him.

1.0
3.0
PHL201
Mar 3, 2003

No Comments

4.0
4.0
PHL201
Mar 11, 2003

His grading policy is very strict

1.0
5.0
PHL201
Apr 10, 2003

Barris is ridiculous. I got A's on the first two papers, and then I took the third paper in to him, and he told me that my paper was great. I turn it in and wait for grades to come out. I end up with a B in the class. What an uncaring jerk.

2.0
5.0
PHL201
Apr 21, 2003

He seems to know about PHL, but his books are really hard to understand. He grades his papers very hard, and will make you do the first one over and over.

2.0
3.0
PHL201
Apr 22, 2003

No Comments

5.0
4.0
PHL201
May 15, 2003

He is way cool and goes beyond the conventional classroom environment. He has helped me to think and has even taught me about life. It is hard to understand how to write the papers at first but I think that its awesome that is willing to help.

5.0
4.0
PHL304
May 21, 2003

No Comments

5.0
1.0
PHL200
Aug 25, 2003

Don't listen to the people who said it is a hard class, all you do is 3 short papers. He begs you to bring your drafts in over and over again until you have a perfect paper and A. Funny, smart, caring, and a breath of fresh air. Great class, easy A.

3.0
4.0
PHL
Nov 3, 2003

This teacher was hard, drop his class unless you already have a some understatnding of PHL. He will make you rewrite your papers many times.

2.0
3.0
PHL201E
Nov 8, 2003

Just don't take it. Period. He doesn't teach, doesn't lecture, doesn't offer any assistance at all.

5.0
4.0
PHL201
Nov 13, 2003

He's a great techer, but the subject is hard. His books are ridiculous, but he explains them. You learn a lot, and gain much from this class.

2.0
4.0
PHL201
Nov 17, 2003

I thought I was doing great because the discussions went so well.He read a draft of my paper,said it was one of the best he'd seen from the class,gave me pointers for revision, then gave me a low D when I turned it in!Grades depend on his mood,not on you.

1.0
5.0
PHL201
Dec 29, 2003

Number 1, this guy is a jerk. Number 2, he says he is trying to get you to think open mindedly, however, his way of thinking is the only right way of thinking. He wants every paper of his students to be the same. He does not like preppy people of Greeks.

5.0
3.0
PHL465
Feb 12, 2004

The man is a genius. I'd love to engage his text more often.

4.0
5.0
PHL201
Feb 17, 2004

The subject should not be taken unless you are really into philosophy. It is very difficult and the readings are ridiculous. The teacher is an alright guy and he explains the majority of it very clearly but he's not very clear on what he wants.

4.0
3.0
PHL201
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Mar 2, 2004

I disagree that u have to understand phl first, i didnt know what it was and got a B on the 1st paper. Its not easy though. Very confusing but he tries to explain.

4.0
5.0
PHL
Mar 10, 2004

Barris himself is a great guy and means well. I think he has a hard time dumbing down things to other people's levels because he is a genius. His papers are hard, and the material is hard, but if you give the time to work at it, you will learn a lot.

5.0
1.0
PHL200
Mar 17, 2004

Great guy. I have no knowledge of phil and got a B. Do your paper like a book report instead of trying to understand the meaning of it! He lets you bring in draft after draft until your paper is what he wants. Loved having class outside in nice weather

4.0
1.0
PHL201
Apr 1, 2004

Barris was easy...he let's you turn in draft after draft after draft until you have what he wants then gives you an A....Books are a tough read but he answers any questions you have...smart guy I'd recommend

3.0
3.0
PHIL
Apr 20, 2004

No doubt, this guy clearly understands philosophy to a degree that no normal human being can even begin to fathom. However, if you haven't personally consulted with Aristotle, or Plato, don't even waste your time.

1.0
5.0
PHILOSOPHY
May 20, 2004

Horrible class- he is very unhelpful and he grades by his mood. He did nothing but frustrate me and most everyone else in the class. Take this class only if you feel like chancing a grade on his random moods and not how good your paper is.

5.0
5.0
3OFTHEM
Jul 15, 2004

He allowed me to see the world differently. He's the reason one of my minors was PHL.

3.0
2.0
PHL
Aug 8, 2004

Take the class! Not like any other you've had. Can make you ask questions you previously thought you had the answers too, and even question education in and of itself. If you struggle, it's a good thing. Life can be/is a struggle.

5.0
1.0
PHL201
Oct 21, 2004

Dr. Barris is an amazing teacher. I had fun in his class and was always inspired to re-think things that I thought I understood. He lets you turn papers in like 20 times until you get an A. Easy class, but very interesting. TAKE HIM!

1.0
5.0
PHL201
Nov 9, 2004

I would NOT recommend anyone to take this man! Although you can turn in a rough draft, if the paper is not what he wants to hear then it's wrong! He also is not helpful in explaining what he wants. (Also is a little strange!)

1.0
5.0
PHILOSOPHY
Nov 15, 2004

For MU to subject their students to a professor such as Barris is beyond me. He will not tell you what he expects. He is NO help when you talk to him. He makes his sexual pref known which was more than I wanted to know. You will beat yourself up over this class. I think he is stoned.

1.0
5.0
PHL201
Nov 25, 2004

Basically, to be honest, read any other comment about him in the negative field and there you go. Very honest people... listen to them!!!

5.0
4.0
PHL201
Dec 5, 2004

Barris is an extremely nice guy. His papers are pretty tough, but he'll help you in any way he can. Previous posters let his sexual preference blur their judgment of him. If you're not a bigot, I would definitely suggest this class.

1.0
5.0
PHIL
Jan 20, 2005

No Comments

1.0
5.0
PHIL201
Jan 20, 2005

I did not appreciate Barris showing up twenty minutes late to class and then being egotistical.

1.0
5.0
SEMINAR
Jan 25, 2005

Awful just awful

4.0
5.0
JUNIORSEMINAR
Jan 25, 2005

Mr.Barris is brilliant. I'll never think the same way again. During lectures, he holds your attention with his ideas and wit, and responds to each question. Marshall is lucky to have such an amazing mind on staff. Oh, and its not his fault if you can't think outside the box.

1.0
3.0
PHIL
Feb 17, 2005

As for the comment below, Barris probably wrote it himself. He's an egotistical waste and, please, if any administrator is reading this, (and Barris is not tenured), get rid of him. Marshall students deserve better than his hodge podge of ideas which always end in conformity -- to the left.

5.0
4.0
COUPLE
Mar 15, 2005

Great guy. If you pay attention you know what he wants.

1.0
5.0
JUNIORSEMINAR
Mar 15, 2005

I think that his method of grading is impossible! Sorry that we can't all be geniuses like you, Dr. Barris...

5.0
3.0
ITOOK8OFHIS
Mar 29, 2005

Dr. Barris is an outstanding professional, instructor, and mentor. The world needs more men like him. His post modernist approach suggests that sand is brown if and only if sand is brown. :)

2.0
5.0
PHILOSOPHY
Apr 15, 2005

Dr. Barris is a hard teacher. He is kinda helpful but he wants you to tell him the answers. I mean how are you suppose to learn anything when you didn't even know what the book was about. If you want to take this class then make sure you are a philosophy major.

2.0
4.0
JUNIORSEMINAR
May 11, 2005

Very unclear about what he wants in his papers. I had an awful time paying attention during class because he just seemed to talk in circles. Great guy but I don't think I will take him again.

5.0
1.0
PHL303
May 18, 2005

Dr. Barris is one of the better professors I have taken. I clearly understood his expectations and he was more helpful than he had to be. He allows you to turn in drafts before the assignments are due and responds promptly to any corrections that need to be made. Obviously, this is a professor that wants his students to do well. I highly recommend!

3.0
4.0
MANY
Jun 8, 2005

Dr. Barris is a great professor.

1.0
2.0
MODERN
Aug 8, 2005

Not quite sure what these people who are giving him positive reviews are smoking. He has not business being in a college classroom. Absolute terrible teacher. His only goal is to stroke his own ego, and show how much smarter he is then you. Avoid at all costs.

5.0
1.0
PHL201
Aug 11, 2005

First of all, HOW HOT IS THE ACCENT! HE'S FLUENT IN GREEK AND LATIN!! I LOVED Dr. Barris...he's the best teacher I've had at Marshall, no contest. All you have to do is write three papers, and he'll go over them with you as many times as you want, so getting anything less than an A is your fault.

3.0
2.0
PHILOSOPHY201
Sep 2, 2005

I got an A in his class. He has an excelent understanding of philosophy, which (I learned) is not an easy subject to grasp. It's a subject that requires actual thinking, which most people hate doing. He's brilliant!

5.0
2.0
PHL
Sep 2, 2005

i still wonder how such a brilliant person ended up teaching at marshall.

5.0
2.0
PHILOSOPHY
Oct 13, 2005

Your mind will be opened to knew lengths. I am taking it as an online class and it is so easy and actually fun. I look forward to the discussions.

2.0
5.0
PHI201
Nov 9, 2005

He is a very wise man in the knowledge that he knows. HE IS A HORRIBLE PROFESSOR! He offers to help you on your papers and tells you what to change but he talks in circles that just make it worse to understand. He is a very strange man.

1.0
5.0
PHIL201
Nov 10, 2005

He's horrible he should not be even teaching. I didnt like talking to him in person and he's very strange and wierd looking. His voice is a little to soft foe me as a Man.

3.0
3.0
PHIL
Grade: Incomplete
Nov 30, 2005

You do only have to write 3 papers, but my goodness the books you have to read. Its really qutie hard. Yea he does let you turn in the rough draft as much as you want--but this class took WAAAYY too much readig, and WAYYYY too much thinking. If you're in a bind, I guess he wouldnt be TOOOO bad

2.0
5.0
MODERNPHL
Dec 7, 2005

He would be a wonderful teacher if he would change his entire teaching style. I worked my butt off on the three papers, but unless you think like he does, you're screwed. He is more than unhelpful when it comes to paper revisions, and I wouldn't recommend him to my worst enemy.

4.0
3.0
PHLE201
Dec 8, 2005

Took class online, entire class was reading two books and writing two papers. Both books were extremely confusing and Barris offers no explanation in attempts to get you to think for yourself. Still, he gives you topics for the paper and in most cases will tell you were to find the information. Write several rough drafts and you should be fine.

1.0
4.0
PHL260
Mar 20, 2006

He needs to understand what it means to be a professional teacher. If he wants to help someone, he needs to help himself. Being a teacher does not mean belittling students to feed your ego. You would think that a philosophy teacher would know how to think about things outside of himself. You will never achieve anything nor will your students.Grow u

1.0
5.0
PHILOSOPHY201
Apr 12, 2006

Jeremy Barris is a huge A**. I hated this class and his way of teaching. DO NOT take his class if it can be avoided. He pushes his believes onto his students. He doesn't care about anyone's oppinion but his own. AWFUL-AWFUL class

1.0
4.0
PHILOSOPY
Apr 13, 2006

Unless you have a way of thinking like him, then i wouldnt recommend this class. You have to write 2 or 3 papers for his class. The material is very unclear. It is a plus that you can write as many as rough drafts as you want, be be aware that his comments are smarty sometimes and he doesnt always give good instructions about what to change.

1.0
5.0
PHL303
May 1, 2006

This is by far the worst professor i have experienced at marshall. i have always gotten A's on papers and Dr. Barris gave me a D, and a D-. instead of being helpful he give arrogant responses. he is an unfair grader and a waste of space! I highly reccommend NOT taking him. I took him online and each paper is worth 50% of your grade!

5.0
5.0
PHL
May 7, 2006

He is a very kind and understanding man. He tends to throw new students off with his bizarre sense of humor, and he's going to destroy you intellectually, but why else would you go to college? An easy A? If so, don't take him. He really is fantastic. He was a huge help to me personally and academically this semester, and for that I thank him.

2.0
1.0
PHL201
May 12, 2006

He's a little out there,but he's not bad. Very little work(only 3,3 page papers all semester) and no attendence policy,but its recommended that you go and keep up with the reading to get on his good side (to get a higher grade). If you're not too concerned about impressing him or anything,and just want to get PHL over with,take it.

1.0
5.0
PHL204
Nov 6, 2006

Barris is unfair, and a strange professor. MU has been told time and time again of his antics. As a student, you do not understand what is expected of you and he will not tell you and I love school. You cannot talk with this man and cannot get help in the class. DO NOT TAKE HIM. I don't care to know if prefs either.

1.0
5.0
PHL201
Nov 9, 2006

HORRIBLE, HORRIBLE, HORRIBLE!! The worst teacher in my LIFE!!! You can't any help what-so-ever!! True you only have like 3 papers to write but its a beast just trying to write what he wants!!! Don't take him if you can find another teacher go for them!

4.0
4.0
PHL201
Dec 8, 2006

Dr. Barris is the nicest person I've met. I'd recommend him. He only gives 3 papers the semester, but he grades very tough! What I thought were hands down A papers, were given C's (I'm an English major, so I can write a paper). Take him, though. He's very nice, but be prepared to have to write well. Take him rough drafts; it will help your grade.

2.0
5.0
PHL201
Dec 15, 2006

It's impossible to get an A with this guy and I mean impossible. Consider yourself extremely lucky if you pull a B or a C. I knew someone in the class who did well, and still got an F on his papers. Avoid if you can.

1.0
4.0
PHL302
Mar 1, 2007

DO NOT TAKE THIS PROFESSOR. He is not helpful or sincere. What you think may be a great paper will probably get an F. Avoid at all costs.

2.0
5.0
PHLSECT
Mar 5, 2007

Very intelligent. Class was interesting. He knows what he is talking about and you will learn alot from him if you pay attention in class. He was not very helpful with papers. Make sure you take him SEVERAL ROUGH DRAFTS!! Very strict on papers!! I got an F on the first paper because I only took when 1 rough draft. I got an A onthesecondandB+onthird

5.0
2.0
PHL201
Mar 27, 2007

No problems

3.0
2.0
PHL480
Apr 10, 2007

Good professor, 2-3 papers and no tests. We get a little off subject, but philosophy is tough and sometimes you need to lighten up the mood. The papers are not that bad either. He def. dosent grade easy, but if u do the readings and turn in some rough drafts you can do well. Def. not an easy A but a overall good profesor. Always late & stays over

3.0
5.0
PHL201
Apr 18, 2007

Ok. he is a differnt character but tries to make a boring class amusing. His views will never be like yours therefore the papers are almost impossible. Attendance is not required but to get a decent grade, you should go. Suggestion- unless you HAVE to take this professor, dont

5.0
4.0
PHL303E
May 1, 2007

Okay, I had only heard horror stories about this guy and thought I was going to fail for sure. Two books, two papers, two grades. It does not seem like a lot, but those books are tough! He allows rough drafts though, so take advantage of it! Don't just send your paper in at the last minute and expect a good grade! Class was just fine!

4.0
5.0
PHL492
Oct 1, 2007

A great professor.

5.0
5.0
PHL485
Oct 19, 2007

One of the best

5.0
4.0
PHL201
Dec 3, 2008

He's a great, funny guy and helpful if you ask. Three papers 3-5 pages and you can take him as many rough drafts as you want and he'll go over it with you and tell you what to improve. Easy class if you take it seriously and do the reading.

4.0
2.0
PHL201
Dec 4, 2008

this has been seriously the hardest and easiest class. i'm not one for phl so of course that makes it hard, but he is so willing to work with me. i've gone to his office many times and he always points me the right way. his class is not boring, mostly entertaining. i put this phl off as long as possible b/c i was so scared. now i am glad its over.

1.0
5.0
PHL201
Dec 19, 2008

The worst professor I've had in my first 2 years at Marshall. If you have the slightest interest in Philosophy, you will hate it after his class. This guy thinks he is Descartes himself. If he could get past his ego, he might not be too bad. But I strongly recommend not taking his class.

1.0
5.0
PHIL101
Dec 25, 2008

I asked for help with a tutoring and he wouldn't give it to me. REFUSED to give me help with tutoring...should such an action be in the realm of what a professor should do? Was no help and only passes you if you hand in rough drafts. Gets off topic alot and is confusing.

1.0
5.0
PHL201
Jan 14, 2009

He is the worst most unfair professor I ever encountered! He is arrogant and a complete waste of space. He would not grade my paper because I had to turn it in late due to the fact I was in the hospital having surgery and he had the nerve to tell me he would not accept a little late because he was "giving me what I deserve". RUN RUN RUN!!!

2.0
5.0
PHL201
Apr 6, 2009

I was looking forward to taking this class. I regret taking it. I had to work my butt off. He doesn't grade well and the books he picks aren't that good.

3.0
5.0
PHL201
Oct 9, 2009

This professor is extremely difficult and his classes are definitely a challenge. He has a wealth of knowledge, but like most philosophy professors lacks the ability to explain it in a way that "the class" can understand. All I can say is you better attend. If philosophy is your thing, take Barris... If not, stay FAR AWAY.

2.0
5.0
PHL304
Nov 16, 2009

He is arrogant, condescending, sarcastic, and does not grade fair. I have never encountered such a rude and inconsiderate professor in my entire collegiate experience.

1.0
5.0
PHIL102
Dec 3, 2009

The worst instructor I have ever had the misfortune of having. His commentsare subjective, his lectures are ill informed. And He is above all arogant and isn't at all as bright and insightfull.

4.0
2.0
PHL201
Dec 7, 2009

i have no idea what's going on here but appearently some students are just stupid. I and everybody around me who was a little interested, read the books and attended class got A or B. if you don't read the books and if you don't attend class, you should not complain.

4.0
3.0
PHL201
Jan 14, 2010

First off, working your butt off is not a bad thing. It is college, put your brains to work. It is a philosophy class, brain function in mandatory! The books are usually interesting. If you ever need clarification for anything, then go see him in his office. Honestly, I found his accent intriguing and helped to keep my attention as to what was said

3.0
4.0
PHL201
Mar 27, 2010

His sarcasm is quite farcical and many misconstrue his intentions. He did seem insulted when challenged, as a debate turned a bit ugly between us in our last class. I partook in all class discussions and received the highest score on the first two papers, but my final paper was graded harshly enough to lower my final grade to a B. Coincidental?

3.0
2.0
PHL201
May 3, 2010

Attendance is not mandatory and his grades come from 3 papers he has you write. I took all 3 of them to him before turning them in and he corrected them to how he wanted. I got an A in the class and it wasn't that difficult. I didn't even read hardly any of the books he just wants the paper to be on one topic discussed in the book.

5.0
1.0
PHIL200
May 12, 2010

Not too hard. Just take him 2 or 3 drafts of each paper, and you will be fine. Wonderful professor, extremely helpful.

5.0
5.0
PHL201
Jul 3, 2010

Mr. 3/27/10 needs to drop the 50$ words that he thinks makes his review more credible. He probably misunderstood the topic and thought he had a good argument. I thought he was being a jerk with my first draft, but then I realized that I really was misunderstanding the concept after it was graded. Just keep bringing drafts and you will do fine.

4.0
5.0
RST492
Nov 13, 2010

Dr. Barris has to have one of the most brilliant minds on the planet. He seems to be very passionate about the material and knows what he is talking about. I didn't quite get a grasp on the material like he wanted me to, but I feel like I learned more in his class getting a C than I did with all the As in my college career. Brilliant.

4.0
2.0
PHL330
May 4, 2012

Fantastic. My third class with Barris; he gets better every time. People say that it's difficult to get A's on his papers but it's really not. Instructions are very literal; take them seriously. First paragraph really only needs to be one sentence. Attendance not mandatory, but coming to class will teach you to think. His classes taught me to think

4.0
1.0
PHL201
Dec 12, 2012

We did two papers for the entire semester. It wasn't that hard, pretty straight forward and make sure you read everything he posts. I got an A on my first paper without sending him a rough draft and didn't read the book till the week before (but I understood it pretty well). He isn't hard but, there isn't much interaction in this class.

1.0
4.0
PHL201
May 3, 2013

Not a good professor at all. Whole class is based on two papers. He doesn't explain anything and what he does try to explain isn't clear at all. DO NOT take.

1.0
5.0
PHL201
May 9, 2013

Took his online class. Tried really hard on both of his papers and he gave me F's on both. Completely failed his class. I don't recommend..

4.0
2.0
PHL200H
May 9, 2013

You have to read the dialouges, no question and his explanations may be a bit off the wall. However, you can take your papers to him as many times as you want and if you do, he will tell you exactly how to write them. I hardly had to go to class, just had him look over my rough drafts.

1.0
3.0
NONE
Dec 3, 2013

hadda read this guy's article for a class.. UGHH SO FREAKING convoluted!

5.0
3.0
PHL200
Dec 10, 2013

The class is based on the grades of only 3 papers. The dates of the papers are established in the syllabus. Dr. Barris allows you to take as many rough drafts to him for editing as needed until your paper is at an A level. They're is no reason, other than laziness, not to get an A in his class.

5.0
3.0
200102
Dec 27, 2013

Prof Barris is very helpful and gives you many opportunities to get an A. I highly suggest bringing him rough drafts until he says you have a good paper. He gives out three essays throughout the semester.

5.0
3.0
PHL200
Grade: A
Dec 27, 2013

Prof Barris assigns three essays throughout the semester and allows you to bring as many rough drafts to him for corrections as you want. He is very helpful and attendance is not mandatory, but his lectures are interesting.

1.0
5.0
PHL201
Feb 28, 2014

He puts way too much weight on opinion pieces, rather than focusing on your understanding of the material. He is a perfectionist and doesn't give adequate credit for reading the books and fully understanding them. His "help" was very confusing and he was never satisfied. Only gave two grades in the whole class. No teaching, no explaining.

1.0
5.0
PHL201
Aug 8, 2014

For the love of all that is good in the world, DO NOT TAKE BARRIS. I was excited to try a philosophy class & came out extremely disappointed. Grades very harshly & only offers 2 papers to write. Books are by philosophers who talk in circles. Have always been a good writer & thought my papers were great. Apparently not. He's terribly rude as well.

2.0
3.0
PHL303
Grade: A+
Jan 7, 2015

If you don't read and go to class, you will failwithout a doubt.

1.0
5.0
PHL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 18, 2015

In the name of all that holy, if you respect yourself, don't take him. I was minoring in philosophy when I went into this class, now I'm not. After the 15 minutes it takes you to decipher his emails you'll discover that he's actually a very very rude person. He needs a knife to slash a hole in his ego so that he can see his students.

5.0
3.0
PHL200H
Apr 22, 2015

I greatly enjoyed Dr. Barris' class. He is so enthusiastic about the topics that he teaches on and really helps to clarify some difficult sections in readings. The papers are not terrible. I would suggest taking papers to him for review, he will tell you exactly what to fix to ensure an A.

5.0
1.0
PHL304
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 4, 2015

I see a lot of negative feedback here and would be glad to clarify Barris openly admits to philosophy challenging your way of thought. It is not supposed to be easy, and I do not think these negatives were prepared. Barris is a wonderful man and was a highlight of this past semester. Do read, do engage him, do turn in drafts, and you will do fine!!

1.0
4.0
PHI201
Nov 7, 2016
Wouldn't take again

He grades papers based on his opinions, and he is vague on assignment details. Although I went through two different people at the writing center as well as emailing him a rough draft, he still hated a paper I had wrote. The overall grade is based on two papers, so write what you think he wants to hear rather than how you feel if you want to pass

Tough Grader
3.0
3.0
PHIL201
Grade: B
Dec 10, 2016
Would take again

The whole class consists of two papers that are four points each so there is not much room for error. However, Dr. Barris allows you to submit as many rough drafts as you wish. I would take this professor again.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
4.0
PHI201
Feb 22, 2018
Wouldn't take again

The only grades are from 2 papers, each worth 4 points. The instructions are not clear and his feedback contradicts rubric standards.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
4.0
PHI201
Grade: D
May 3, 2018
Wouldn't take again

He only gives two assignments which are paper one and paper two they are both only worth 4 points so if you fail one its game over. His feedback is very ambiguous so its hard to understand what an a paper looks like to him. I highly recommended not taking this class with this professor!

Tough Grader
1.0
1.0
PHI201
Grade: C+
May 14, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Two papers worth 4 points each is not logical. Disagree with him and your grade will suffer. I mean isn't philosophy boil down to because I said so. If you need feedback on a weekend you will get none. He is a contradiction

Tough Grader
2.0
4.0
PHL201
Grade: C
Apr 6, 2019
Wouldn't take again

In the whole class the only graded assignments are two papers. Feed back received from rough drafts was confusing and not very helpful.

Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHL303
Grade: D
May 6, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Dont even waste your time with him. He does not give a crap about you or your grade. He has the WORST grading system and is completely rude.

1.0
4.0
PHI201
Grade: C+
Jun 7, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Total of two grades which are papers. Feedback is not clear at all.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
PHL201
Grade: D
Dec 10, 2019
Wouldn't take again

I took his class because I thought it would be interesting. There were only two assignments (midterm and final papers) out of the whole course, so there weren't any opportunities to get a better grade. As a PHL instructor, I felt that he should've given more freedom for paper content, but he was strict on what he wanted me to write. Don't take him!

Graded by few things
Test heavy
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
PHL303
Dec 10, 2019
Would take again

Great prof would take again!!!

Gives good feedback
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
5.0
4.0
PHL303
Grade: A
Dec 18, 2019
Would take again

If your idea of a great class is one where the work is easy and you do not have to think, then avoid Dr. Barris. If you want thought-provoking discussion and to be challenged to get outside of your box, then he is for you. Best online class I have taken. Excellent professor!

Gives good feedback
Inspirational
5.0
3.0
PHL321
Grade: A+
Dec 4, 2020
Would take again

I am not sure why he has such a low rating. I really enjoyed this class, especially the option to submit papers early for specific feedback on how to get full points. Anyone who takes this class seriously will surely pass. I actually enjoy earning the grade rather than getting an A for no effort.

Gives good feedback
Graded by few things
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
PHL303
Grade: A
Dec 6, 2020
Would take again

Professor Barris was an excellent instructor who prioritized challenging students who put in the work and earned his thoughtful feedback. I would definitely take a class of his again!

Gives good feedback
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
PHL330
Dec 6, 2020
Wouldn't take again

You only have 2 assignments in this class, both 2 page papers on stuff from the book. The book is very hard to read and he grades SO HARD. It seems like hes wanting a very specific answer from you in the papers. I didnt really understand this book well. Would never take this professor again.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
PHL201
Grade: Rather not say
Mar 10, 2021
Wouldn't take again

You only have two papers in his class. 4 points each which makes the class only have 8 points altogether. He doesn't care about you. He wants specific, correct things and if you can't give it to him then you're automatically wrong. Don't take him.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
PHIL201
Grade: C+
Apr 21, 2021
Wouldn't take again

He has a small book by Nagel for you to read over the semester, and for your grade, he has only two assignments. They are both essays. I wrote my essay on how the world isn't a projection of the mind and he graded it harshly. I got a C- because he didn't like the evidence I chose to use.

Tough grader
1.0
4.0
PHL201
Grade: Rather not say
Apr 23, 2021
Wouldn't take again

I 100% do not recommend this man. He only gives two grades throughout the whole semester which basically sets his students up for failure. We had weekly discussion boards that consisted of him saying that we were wrong with no further feedback. His comments on the papers were not helpful at all and were quite confusing and rude. Not worth the time

Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
3.0
PHIL201
Grade: Rather not say
Apr 28, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Only two papers in the whole course. No room for any error or makeup.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHL201
Apr 28, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Do not take his class if you value your sanity. Only two grades in the class with both of them being papers. His grading sounds good on paper, but if you don't talk about what he has already thought of, you'll get a poor grade. For my final paper, I sent in my rough draft which he said was good, then worked on and submitted it only to receive a D-.

Tough grader
1.0
4.0
PHI201
Apr 29, 2021
Wouldn't take again

This is probably my least favorite professor Ive had. I dont like to be rude but the way his class is ran aggravated me. He has only TWO grades for the semester both being papers. Cant revise papers after youve submitted them either.

Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHL201
Aug 23, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Horrible. Had him last semester and he failed me for things not required in his class. Very passive aggressive. Only two assignments the whole freaking semester.

Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHL303
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 4, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Just as the other reviews say, 2 assignments for the entire class. Sounds good on paper, but execution is poor. Very contradictory with his feedback. Very harsh grader. Lots of unneeded stress if you take this class.

Graded by few things
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
PHL201
Dec 7, 2021
Would take again

I really enjoyed Professor Barris' class overall. He is very knowledgeable about the subject of Philosophy and really wants you to learn. You must work to receive a good grade. He was not rude and answered any emails I sent in a timely manner. Read the chapters and you will succeed.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Get ready to read
1.0
5.0
PHIL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 21, 2022

Only two assignments for the whole semester. When asked for help, was just told to read the assignment more thorough next time. Only other work was the weekly discussions that no one participated in because it was not graded. The professor talked about expressing our opinions but would be graded harshly if he didn't agree with our opinions.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
PHL303
Grade: C-
Dec 5, 2022

Do not take him. Your grade depends on two papers. The topic of the papers are unclear and he is not good with helping you. Received and A on the first paper and a D on the second. Very tough grade for a class that is not even important in most degrees. Very sarcastic in email if you do not understand.

Tough grader
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
PHI201
Dec 12, 2022

This professor gives very unclear directions and his grading criteria are very lengthy and not clearly written. Only two papers in the whole course. No room for any error or makeup. DO NOT TAKE THIS PROFESSOR !!!

1.0
5.0
PHIL201
Dec 12, 2022

Terrible. Very boring prof, avoid taking him unless you have no choice.

Tough grader
Graded by few things
1.0
3.0
PHIL201
Dec 12, 2022

OH, man! definitely the worst professor! IF U HAVE HIM CHANGE RIGHT NOW! it's gonna change ur life!

Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHL321
Grade: D
Dec 29, 2022

This is the worst professor I have ever had. I am a Senior and I am an A student - I got a D in this class. I tried and tried to figure out what he wanted from me but he was never clear. Every time I thought I finally figured it out, he ended up giving me a D with little explanation. Dragged my GPA down. Do not take him. He is also not very nice.

Tough grader
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
PHIL201
Grade: D-
Nov 17, 2023

Do not take this class. The bad reviews you see are not fabricated. There are 2 assignments for the entire semester. He allows for a rough draft on papers, but does not give great feedback, and often comes off as passive-aggressive. He responds "This is not right", and repeats the prior assignment instructions that are unclear. Find a different PRO

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MODERNPHL
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Feb 28, 2024

This is by far the worst professor I have ever had, he wants you to be able to read his mind and if you use any of your own opinions he will fail you and not give you an explanation. Very passive-aggressive in his instructions, the only thing I learned in his class is that my thoughts are wrong, disappointing.

Tough grader
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
PHIL201
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Mar 12, 2024

This is an intro class, yet no teaching is done. He criticizes any disagreements with his opinions, even if you back them up with a clear thought process. There are only 2 graded assignments and he is extremely passive aggressive in his feedback. I am a 4.0 student, yet before withdrawing, I had a D in the class. Do not take his class.

Tough grader
Graded by few things
4.0
2.0
PHIL201
Grade: B+
Apr 22, 2024

I received a D+ on the first assignment but this was my fault as I did not participate in the class at all. The second paper I recieved an A as I had sent him a rough draft and had researched philoshophy on my own to get a better understanding of how to do the assignment. I wouldn't take the course again, but i think the reviews are a bit harsh.

Tough grader
Gives good feedback
Graded by few things
3.0
4.0
PHIL201
Grade: B
Nov 11, 2024

This class was a real challenge, but Unstuck study was a lifesaver for exam prep. The professor has a specific teaching style, so staying engaged and using resources like the free textbook is key to success.

1.0
5.0
PHIL201
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 27, 2024

There are only 2 grades in this course, which are 2 papers. He doesn't give clear instructions on what he wants for them. He allows you to submit rough drafts to him but repeatedly says that they aren't good enough but does not give advice on how to make them better. You pretty much have to read his mind. Every comment you read on this page is true

Tough grader
Participation matters
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
PHIL201
Grade: D
May 10, 2025

This professor gives severely unclear instructions on what is expected for each paper. This class is made up of only 2 papers, worth 4 points each -- a whopping 8 total points for the class. This His grading criteria is so unclear, and while students are able to submit rough drafts, he repeatedly tells you that the whole paper is bad. DON'T TAKE IT

Tough grader
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
MANY
Grade: B
Sep 22, 2025
Would take again

LOVED his courses. Several had similar layout of reading and a paper to go with-he gives feedback and wants you to understand the material.

Gives good feedback
Inspirational
Lecture heavy
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

14%

Textbook Required

33%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

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Predicted Grade

C+

95% confidence
Based on 20 grades
Most common grades:
D (5)
Not sure yet (4)
A (3)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(3)C(5)D(9)F(0)A-/B+(1)
Based on 32 reported grades
D: 5
Not sure yet: 4
A: 3
B: 3
Common Tags
Tough grader (25)
Graded by few things (23)
Get ready to read (9)
Gives good feedback (7)
Tough Grader (5)
GRADED BY FEW THINGS (2)
Inspirational (2)
Participation matters (2)
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