Matthew Wright

Matthew Wright is an Associate Professor at the Torrey Honors College of Biola University, where he specializes in political theory within the Thomistic-Aristotelian natural law tradition. His work examines the relationship between political communities and natural associations like families and churches, focusing on how political life contributes to human social development.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. from the University of Texas
• B.A. from Biola University

Wright's research centers on natural law theory, civic friendship, and the foundations of political community. He analyzes how universal moral norms interact with local attachments and explores the distinctive role of political institutions in fostering human flourishing. His scholarship bridges classical philosophy (particularly Aquinas and Aristotle) with contemporary political challenges, emphasizing the integration of theological insights into political theory.

His publications reveal a consistent trajectory examining natural law applications across diverse contexts—from ancient Stoicism to modern jurisprudence. The works demonstrate interdisciplinary engagement spanning political philosophy, legal theory, ethics, and theology, with recurring themes of community formation, moral geography, and the common good.

Wright is affiliated with the James Madison Society at Princeton University, recognizing his contributions to political theory scholarship.

As an Associate Professor in Biola's Torrey Honors College, he participates in a distinctive Socratic-dialogue-based honors program, mentoring students through great books curriculum while contributing to evangelical political thought discussions. His public intellectual engagement extends to cultural commentary on politics and faith through Scriptorium Daily.