PHIL 3240
Ancient Philosophy
An examination of the high-water marks of philosophy in ancient Greece and Rome, focusing primarily on Plato and Aristotle. A wide range of philosophical problems will be discussed, including the nature of the good life, the justification of knowledge, and the ultimate nature of mind and world. Attention will be paid to how these problems unfolded in their historical context and to how the ancient treatments of them compare to contemporary efforts.
Instructors
Reviews
Eric is a great guy and is an engaging lecturer. I found he was accessible to meet with outside of class. He makes plenty of jookes in class and encourages questions from the class, sometimes the class is just about the questions being asked and not whatever he planned. I think above all this guy loves philosophy and loves talking about it.
1/9/2025
Just lectures. That's it. He has no other purpose. If you meet with him, he just doesn't help. There is absolutely no structure in the class. No in class discussions. There are no essay prompts so if he doesn't like your topic you're kinda f'ed. Also outside of class he just isn't a nice guy. I don't get why people like him.
12/23/2021
Firstly, he is very knowledgeable; he's like the human version of an ancient philosophy encyclopedia; however, he lectures far too much and there is almost no space for discussion. If you have an argument, he will quickly shoot it down. Essays are difficult cause in class he doesn't really tolerate counter arguments to Plato.
10/22/2021
In a word, fantastic! Brown is exceedingly clear, uses great explanatory examples, and brings his passion to each lecture. Knows his stuff inside and out. Structures his class so as to acquaint you with primary material while simultaneously strengthening your basic philosophical skills. And he's hilarious. Take this class if you can!
1/1/2006
Enthusiastic, makes course interesting with a unifying theme. Smart as a whip, but not arrogant about it (he will debate with you in class, though)
7/27/2004
Wonderfully sweet man, and made intro to philosophy fun and easier to understand than i thought it would be. most of his jokes are lame, but he's having so much fun teaching that you laugh right along with him anyways. a good time.
3/29/2004