4.1

Richard Kortum

Philosophy - East Tennessee State University

4.1
Quality
2.7
Difficulty
N/A
Would Retake
92
Reviews
4.1
Quality
2.7
Difficulty
4.0
Helpful
4.2
Clarity

N/A

Would Retake

92

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

58

4

14

3

9

2

7

1

4

What Students Say

Otherwise, easy class

HUMT2310 - 4.0 rating

Kortum is an amazing teacher

HUMT2310 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

100%

Textbook Required

100%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

56% confidence
Based on 2 grades
Most common grades:
C (1)
A (1)
Grade Distribution
A(1)B(0)C(1)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(0)
Based on 2 reported grades
C: 1
A: 1
Rating Trend

Stable

-0.15 avg change
Nov
Dec
Nov
Dec
Nov
Nov
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

2310

5.0

(1)

HUMT2

5.0

(2)

HUMT1020

5.0

(1)

SYMBOLICLOGIC

5.0

(1)

HUMANITIES1

5.0

(1)
+20 more courses
Difficulty by Course

SYMBOLICLOGIC

5.0

HUMT001

5.0

HUMT1

4.5

PHIL3063

4.5

PHL

4.0

Reviews (92)
5.0
3.0
HUMT2310
Apr 19, 2003

No Comments

5.0
2.0
HUMT2
Oct 27, 2003

He loves what he teaches. Class is simple~don't worry about taking notes. Everything is on the study guides. Know the pictures and the artists. Be prepared for singing and dancing. A knowledgable, interesting, and entertaining man.

5.0
1.0
HUMT2310
Oct 31, 2003

would definitely take him again!! he makes the class interesting!

5.0
3.0
HUMT1020
Nov 18, 2003

this is quite possibly the best professor I have ever had. He truly loves what he teaches and it shows. He is not afraid to be himself and it makes all the difference. I beg of you PLEASE take a class taught by him!!!

5.0
2.0
2310
Apr 16, 2004

Awesome teacher. He loves his job, and you can tell by the way he teaches. I would take this teacher if you have the chance.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2320
Apr 27, 2004

Awesome professor and person! Truly cares and knows his stuff!!!

4.0
3.0
HUMT
May 20, 2004

I had Dr. K for both Humanities I and II and really enjoyed both classes. He makes his lectures fun with some humor. VERY good professor. Glad he came to ETSU!

4.0
4.0
PHL
Jun 18, 2004

I did not take HUMT with Kortum but a Philosophy class instead. I had a love/hate relationship regarding the class...but Dr. K is a very good teacher. Always cheerful, and LOVES teaching.

2.0
4.0
HUMANITES1
Oct 30, 2004

BORING!! test are hard, only took it b/c it was required..............

5.0
1.0
HUMT
Dec 11, 2004

I had Dr. K for both Humanities I and II. Excellent professor! Pretty much if you take notes and go to class and listen you'll be alright. He really made me look at art in a whole new light. Top notch guy.

5.0
3.0
HUMT2310
Feb 7, 2005

you have to be brain dead to find this professor boring! He must be the most lively teacher i've ever had anywhere. you will definietely learn A LOT (if you want). And, Dr. K is hot, hot, HOT!!

5.0
5.0
SYMBOLICLOGIC
Aug 30, 2005

Good grief! Kortum is one of the most intelligent people that I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. Wondeful teaching style. I learned a great deal in his class. And even took an advanced logic class!

5.0
3.0
HUMANITIES
Sep 16, 2005

No Comments

2.0
5.0
HUMT2310
Nov 17, 2005

This is the most boring class ever! The test are really hard and he always holds class over 5-10 minutes! Dont take him!!!

4.0
3.0
HUMT2320
Grade: C
Nov 18, 2005

Ok professor but I personally didn't much care for him. He was boring and all the class really is about is memorization of what he wants you to know. Kind of arrogant. EXPECTS you to call him Dr. While I understand he "earned" the title, most decent professors make this optional and don't require it. BORING!!!!!!!

5.0
1.0
HUMT2310
Nov 19, 2005

One of the few professors from the philosophy class that won't put you to sleep in class. He moves around, tells jokes, invites comments and questions from the class, even in a lecture hall. Go to class, read the books, use the website image galleries, and you'll be fine. He has assigned seating in his lecture classes though, which gets annoying.

4.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Nov 22, 2005

hated going to this class with a passion. i have never seen a man that is more full of himself and his accomplishments.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Nov 29, 2005

This is absolutely my favorite class of all time. I can't wait to sit and listen to Dr. K. Every day I learn something new and a new way to think about life. I'll bet that "good" students all love him, and "bad" students don't. But then that's their problem. Dr. K. is a fantastic teacher and a wonderful person. I'll take any of his classes i

2.0
5.0
HUMT1
Dec 1, 2005

Very intelligent and knowledgable about humantiies. I wouldnt recommend him to a freshman sudent! Test are very hard and tricky! Study Study Study and you might pass! Also very ****ed!

5.0
3.0
HUMANITIES1
Dec 10, 2005

This guy is very interesting. He does require you to be at every class and and to turn in your hoomework(optional) when it is due. His tests are very trickey. I guess all I can say is to study for the tests.

4.0
4.0
HUMT2310
Jan 14, 2006

Dr. Kortum is a very knowledgable professor but his class is very hard. His notes are understandable and the topics are interesting but the tests are killer. Most people in my class failed miserably. Homework is optional but will help your grade, he has assigned seating which is unnecessary. Attendance is very important he takes it EVERY time.

4.0
1.0
HUMT2320
Apr 7, 2006

Kortum is a great professor, very well educated, and it's easy to make an A in his class, just show up and pay attention. Warning though- he's in love with himself and will indiscreetly but very frequently remind you of his genius. Don't let this get to you, or it will drive you crazy. And what's with the accent? Isn't he from West Virginia?

4.0
2.0
HUMT2320
May 25, 2006

He is an extremly knowledgable teacher with good people skills but he tends to be a bit self-asorbed. Don't question his genius or that will be your demise in his class. Do the homeworks and stay on top of the material and you will do fine.

1.0
5.0
HUMANITIES
Jun 27, 2006

you might as well save your money and just sit at home and stare at a rock for 4 hours a week, that is about as interesting as he is.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2320
Jul 17, 2006

Anyone who finds this prof boring has to be either comatose or a meth-head. HE is stimulating, thought provoking, funny as hell, caring, and knowledgeable beyond belief. Quite simply one of the very best. If you want to learn, then absolutely take his classes.

5.0
1.0
HUM2320
Sep 30, 2006

this is a reaallly cool person. he trained us in Azerbaijan. There were trainings about SGA. I really liked this person! :) c_S

5.0
3.0
HUMT2310
Oct 14, 2006

Absolutely FANTASTIC teacher! I want to take every class he teaches. Why don't we have a HUMT major at ETSU????

5.0
4.0
HUMT1
Nov 8, 2006

He is not a very easy teacher. You have to study hard for his tests and you have homework every week. The homework is not that hard though. He takes attendence everyday so if you don't show you fail. During class though he is very interesting and you will learn a lot.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Nov 16, 2006

This guy is very enjoyable. The test aren't too bad; if you're really good at retaining a lot of information from lecture then you're in perfect shape. I don't necessarily agree with where he stands on some issues, but hey, it's a great class.

1.0
5.0
HUMT2310
Dec 16, 2006

horrible personality. he says he's available outside of class, but i asked him for a conference, and he said he would not meet outside of class. very hard tests!

3.0
3.0
HUMT2310
Dec 16, 2006

Very intelligent but thinks everyone else is stupid. Never responds to emails and isnt understanding of family emergencies like a grandfather having a heart attack or surgery. If I hadn't taken my attendace up with the dean, he was going to fail me. I got a B+ and got A's on all tests and hw. I missed only 5 absences and all were documented. BEWARE

5.0
3.0
HUMT2310
Dec 19, 2006

great class, great teacher. not for those who jsut want an easy A, but if you really want to learn somethin new and learn to see things in new ways, dr. k is definitely the one to take!

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Dec 26, 2006

Great class. Dr. K. is really passionate and cares about students (despite what a few sour grapes seem to think). Weekly short written homework assignemnts (easy), 5 multiple-choice tests (moderate), and attendance (deducts points after 3 absences). Course website is a BIG help (he lectures from it, you study from it), and so are his study guide

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Dec 29, 2006

Wow, I've never seen anyone teach like this -- super knowledgeable but also super energetic, and VERY entertaining. He weaves together so many different things in one class, it's breathtaking. Easy to learn from if you show interest and keep up with the readings and website. Totally recommended!

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jan 1, 2007

A really interesting man. Seems he's been almost everywhere. We're lucky to have him! He's an inspiring, informative, and entertaining lecturer who tries to help students learn and to see things in new ways. If you're open and serious and willing to work even moderately hard, you'll have a great experience.

5.0
3.0
HUMT2310
Jan 4, 2007

Quite simply one of the best!

2.0
4.0
HUMT2310
Jan 17, 2007

I personally didnt like this class and didnt really understand his teachings so I withdrawed. I wouldnt recommend this class if you dont follow very well.

5.0
3.0
HUMT2320
Jun 13, 2007

Very interesting teacher

4.0
1.0
HUMT2320
Oct 18, 2007

Who gave this guy a pepper? What's wrong with you people- you know he gets on here and sees it and inflates his ego even more. Don't give him the satisfaction.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Nov 19, 2007

Great professor!!! I plan on taking his next class!!

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jan 11, 2008

You want to learn some really interesting things about art and culture, take this man. he's excellent! Extremely knowledgeable, entertaining, and helpful outside of class if you need or want extra help.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jan 11, 2008

Because of personal situations I failed 4 of the 5 tests, but still got a C thanks to the homework and attendance policies and extra credit activity. But mostly I passed thanks to this great teacher and all the time he spent with me outside class. He's great! This class is really intersting and i'm going to take Dr. K again next smester. A+++

3.0
4.0
HUMTHUMT
Apr 29, 2008

he's a great professor, you will definitely benefit from his classes. Not an easy class, but the fact that it's so interesting makes it easier. However, very very very full of himself, thinks everyone else is stupid. Dr. Kortum, I know you are probably reading this - please shrink the ego :)

5.0
3.0
HUMT2310
Jul 27, 2008

Inspired and inspiring. After 5 years I still think about Dr. K's classes nearly every day.

3.0
5.0
HUMT001
Aug 4, 2008

This professor knew his material quite well, but has completely unrealistic expectations for his students. He has time consuming homeworks and lectures that will put you to sleep. He doesn't seem to realize that everyone has at least 3 or 4 other classes. I have never felt so resentful towards any other professor.

2.0
5.0
HUMT2310
Oct 16, 2008

HE SPEAKS IN BRITISH AND DOESNT HELP AT ALL HE DONT CARE BOUT HIS STUDENTS

5.0
3.0
HUM2310
Oct 21, 2008

Took the humanities (first half) class a few years back, it was excellent. He doesn't have an ego, he's just highly intelligent. Then again, I had a crush on him too.

5.0
2.0
HUM2310
Oct 21, 2008

Delicious.

5.0
3.0
HUMT2310
Oct 22, 2008

One of my favorite classes at ETSU. He is helpful, highly intelligent and easy on the eyes! I would take him again.

3.0
4.0
HUMT2310
Nov 11, 2008

His lecture is informative,notes could be better laid out,would help if he'd put the enormous study guides up earlier and use the computer to post if he is going to be absent.Not an easy class.

2.0
5.0
HUMT2310
Dec 3, 2008

horrible teacher, he has an attitude if you even ask him the slightest little questions. Only allows you to miss 3 classes (which by the way this is a 3 day per wk class) then after that its 2 points off your final grade. tests are super hard, notes aren't very clear. he runs over on class time everyday. and most of all, he's a total perve!

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jan 19, 2009

Excellent professor. Clear and interesting lectures, tests are not hard if you study (average is something like 80-83), and weekly homework assignments are short, easy, and allow you to raise your grade. Extra credit film is generous. Dr. K always encourages and answers questions, and will spend A LOT of time with you outside of class. A+

5.0
2.0
HUMT2
Jan 19, 2009

One of the best teachers i've had. His enthusiasm for arts and ideas is contagous. Very lively and good sense of humor. Especially cool on Greek ideas and architecture, sculpture and theater, plus middle ages. You probably have to study hard and keep up with readings, but its definitly worth the effort. Thanks, I learned a lot!

5.0
3.0
HUMT2320
Jun 21, 2009

Really wonderful, absolutely one of the best!

4.0
4.0
PHIL3063
Jun 21, 2009

Consciousness. GREAT CLASS! readgins are advanced & sometimes difficult, but Dr. K helps you go through them carefully to identify & comprehend main points. Very COOL thought-experiments (zombies!) generated lots of useful discussion. quizzes focus your reading, w. helpful reading guides. Excellent for improving critical thinking skills! A++

5.0
5.0
PHIL3063
Aug 25, 2009

Phil. of Mind/Consciousness. Finally, a REAL philosophy class, where you do REAL philosophy ... critical analysis & working through difficult arguments. Not easy, not for the lazy, but for advanced students serious about learning TO DO philosophy, ... not just learn what famous philosophers say & why. Cool prof. The BEST prep for grad school!

3.0
3.0
HUMT2310
Nov 10, 2009

overall his class is pretty easy. total perve, he talked about sex and stuff like that more than he did about things that were on the tests. he quotes the book a lot, so if you read the book and study the pics online then you would probably pass. he seems irritated when you ask questions, especially when they contradict him.

4.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Dec 8, 2009

Dr. Kortum is a great professor. You have to be there for his lectures, otherwise, you are going to be completely lost on half the questions on his tests. He keeps the class interesting and he is just a very charming person. Beware, his 1st 2 tests are easy, but he tests get harder as the year proceeds

4.0
4.0
HUMT1218
Jan 8, 2010

Dr. Kortum was not my favorite. The material in the course was a hodgepodge, and Dr. Kortum would make random sexual references out of nowhere. I found it somewhat unprofessional and it made it very difficult to take him seriously at times. But just be sure to partcipate in class discussion and ask questions when you don't understand something

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jan 10, 2010

One of best clasess at ETSU, especialy for starters, and one of best teachers period. Stimulating, informative and entertaining lectures. you learn to see in new ways. Sex? c'mon! how can you look at Greek, Roman, and medieval painting and nude sculptures without talking about human sexuality?? if your a prude, don't enroll in college!

5.0
4.0
HONORQUES
Jan 10, 2010

Honors Quest was an awesome experience with Drs. K and Crofts! my favorite class anywhere, thanks!

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jan 22, 2010

Dr. K is simply one of the best. Don't miss his great leactures, fun performances! He'll spend a LOT of time with you out of class to help. A+

1.0
1.0
HUM101
Jan 22, 2010

Definitely not a narcissist.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jan 23, 2010

Great class. Outstanding instructor. If you have any interest in the arts (including architecture and literature) and their historical context, take this course -- but only with Dr. K. If you hope to be able to slack off, don't bother.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jan 26, 2010

Dr. K is an incredible professor and person. Not only does he care about you as a student but also as a person. An inspirational person who wants you to achieve to fullest potiential. Makes you think about life and where you stand in it... truely an instructor you must take before you leave ETSU. Take his class seriously and youll learn so much!!!!

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jan 26, 2010

Dr. K is an incredible professor and person. Not only does he care about you as a student but also as a person. An inspirational person who wants you to achieve to fullest potiential. Makes you think about life and where you stand in it... truely an instructor you must take before you leave ETSU. Take his class seriously and youll learn so much!!!

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Feb 3, 2010

great class, super knowledgeable professor, lively and funny. intro survey class, not too demanding, but you'll need to attend and study. A+

1.0
1.0
HUMT2310
Feb 3, 2010

You're right, definitely not a narcissist.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jul 5, 2010

A+++ Kortum encourages you to think and SEE things in new ways, and to make connections to oh so many things that at first seem unrelated. Stimulating and highly entertaining. This course is a great intro to all the arts in their historical/cultural context. HIGHLY recommended, especially for frosh and sophomores.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Dec 22, 2010

my absulutely favorite class and favorite professor! I cant wait til next semester for part 2! A+

3.0
3.0
HUMT002
Dec 22, 2010

This class is insanely boring, but it is one of the easier arts credits. If you go to class you should be fine. He give you a thoroughly detailed study guide for each test. Class lectures are extremely boring. If you study for the tests you should be fine. Minimum textbook use, could probably get by with not buying one.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jan 5, 2011

My favorite class and favorite professor. will spend LOTS of time outside class to help you. I wish I could have Dr. K. every semester. Passionate about arts and ideas, easy to understand, and very funny! if your bored, it's definitely your fault.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jan 5, 2011

If you have any interest at all in learning about painting, sculpture and architecture, take this course. you'll never see things the same after. Dr. K is lively and engaging, knows his stuff but won't hesitate to admit when he doesn't. Encourages you to think for yourself and see things in new and different ways. Every day is interesting! Thanx!

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jan 7, 2011

I absolutely loved this man! He is so passionate about what he teaches, and really inspires his students to learn all about philosophy, arts, architecture, etc. He cares immensely about his students, and is incredibly intelligent. He isn't pompous by any means, he only expects his students to put effort into their tests and assignments. Definite A+

3.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Jan 9, 2011

Pretty cool guy, but wouldn't recommend taking him early in the morning he will put you to sleep. Test are easy if you go to his study sessions. He is bad about canceling class and not letting you know, also don't look for any use of D2L or emails!

4.0
1.0
HIST002
Jan 14, 2011

I had Kortum this past semester. and i got an "A". hes not hard its a lecture so yeha it gonna be kinda boring,but his exams are EASY. all you have to do to prepare is print the study guid do it, and remember the pictures.

2.0
5.0
HUMT002
Jan 25, 2011

He is the worst teacher I have ever had in my life.I have always made A's and B's but I got a D in his class unless you want ur gpa to drop do not take him his tests are very hard and he is also super boring

5.0
4.0
HUMT002
Apr 4, 2011

A truly interesting individual. He is exceptionally well traveled and has a personal story to add to just about every lecture on every culture. I am not particularly interested in art, but I thoroughly enjoyed this class.

5.0
3.0
HUMT100
Jun 2, 2011

Excellent professor! He made a class that could be completely boring and made it so fascinating! I loved his class!

5.0
3.0
HUMT1000
Jun 4, 2011

Dr. K is an awesome professor. He's very intelligent and insightful. He opens your eyes to a new perspective and challenges you to think outside the box. It was a really interesting class when it could of been completely boring. I would definitely take him again!

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Oct 23, 2011

Dr k is an amazing teacher! he explains everything in a new light and was very captivating. he makes you think in a new way and i'd recommend him to anyone! i hope to later on take his other classes

5.0
3.0
HUMT2310
Dec 17, 2011

Really amazing individual. Lectures like story telling. Very cool. Knows his stuff and then some. he goes out of his way to help you, with study sessions, extra credit activities, and one on one help sessions if you need it. Outstanding. I can't wait till next semester!

5.0
2.0
HUMT2320
Apr 15, 2012

Really got you to think about things in a new light. Amazing teacher and individual. I learned so much. I would recommend anyone and everyone to take his class regardless of major.

4.0
3.0
HUMT2310
Nov 14, 2012

Dr. K was a good professor, but I didnt always agree with his opinions or material. WARNING: if you are a follower of Jesus Christ, this class could be very difficult to deal with. He is not at all a believer and some things he says are hard to handle. Otherwise, easy class. study sessions very helpful. multiple choice tests. no final exam.

3.0
3.0
HUMT2310
Nov 18, 2012

This class will bore you to death! There are other instructors who can make it at least tolerable. Attendence is strict and if you don't study and have a good memory you'll do crappy in the class. I would not recommended this class.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Nov 23, 2012

I was always kept interested. I learned a lot and really enjoyed the class.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Dec 11, 2012

Kortum is an amazing teacher. He speaks with great passion and a true spark for what he does. He's one of the most experienced instructors at ETSU, and is very culturally aware and intelligent. His class may seem dull at times, but if you actually listen, it's some amazing material. I highly suggest his class. Oh, and the test's easy, and no final!

4.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Nov 15, 2013

Very good, passionate professor. Sometimes when telling stories, he gets teary eyed. Sensitive, almost huggable personality. Gives 5 tests throughout the semester of moderate difficulty. Class averages between 79-84 on each test. Take GOOD notes and read out of the book, you should do well.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Dec 11, 2013

WOW! This man is unbelievably good. Goes out of his way to hlp you. Gives individual help outsde class, group study sessions, weighs test scores so your best one counts most and your worst counts least, an extra credit activity, puts powerpoint lectures on D2L, provides study guides. if you dont do well, it's not his bad! test avg = 82-86 my class.

5.0
2.0
HUMT2310
Dec 12, 2013

Should be a requirement to take a course with Dr. K. I wish I could sit in his clssroom every day. The highlight of my day, always illuminating and/or thought provoking. Objectives are clear, lectures entertaining, and so many generous ways to succeed, to get maximum points. 5 tests are fairly easy, multiple choice, w. free bonus points! A++ Thanx!

3.0
3.0
ARTSANDIDEAS
Nov 13, 2014

Not a bad class to have at all! Do not get me wrong, there are days where I could fall asleep in there, but if you show up and do your part, the tests are easy. Only thing I do not like about him is that he often goes over class time.

5.0
3.0
HUMT2310
Grade: A
Nov 22, 2015

One word: Awesome.

Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

100%

Textbook Required

100%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

56% confidence
Based on 2 grades
Most common grades:
C (1)
A (1)
Grade Distribution
A(1)B(0)C(1)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(0)
Based on 2 reported grades
C: 1
A: 1
Rating Trend

Stable

-0.15 avg change
Nov
Dec
Nov
Dec
Nov
Nov
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

2310

5.0

(1)

HUMT2

5.0

(2)

HUMT1020

5.0

(1)

SYMBOLICLOGIC

5.0

(1)

HUMANITIES1

5.0

(1)
+20 more courses
Difficulty by Course

SYMBOLICLOGIC

5.0

HUMT001

5.0

HUMT1

4.5

PHIL3063

4.5

PHL

4.0

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