ABOUT

Dr. Matthew Wilburn King

Author. Scholar. Explorer.

Reimagining Science, Meaning, and Myth in the Modern Age for People, the Planet, and Peace.

Humanity is living through a mythological transition. The old stories: limitless growth, nationalism, separation from nature are disintegrating. In their place, a new worldview is emerging: psychologically grounded, ecologically attuned, and scientifically awe-based.

I work at the intersection of this transition. I am an author, scholar, and explorer integrating science, ecology, and inner truth to help people navigate a rapidly changing world.

The Scholar & Practitioner
I earned my Ph.D. in Political Ecology from the University of Cambridge, studying how environmental governance evolves within complex systems. For three decades, I worked across 45 countries, collaborating with scientists, governments, and communities to design nature-based solutions.

My entire body of work, spanning 30 years, coalesces around a single, driving inquiry:

How do human systems (governance, ecology, economics, psychology, and finance) evolve to survive the ecological limits of the planet?

As founder of Our COMMON Foundation and co-founder of Bhumi Investments, I moved from theory to action, deploying impact capital that catalyzed over $5.2 million in funding for environmental innovators.

My TEDx talk on empowering people within capitalism has been viewed by over one million people, while my corresponding analysis on the next stage of capitalism for BBC Future has engaged millions more globally.

The Creator
Today, I apply my understanding of systems to the human interior. My work explores ecological collapse, spiritual awakening, and the art of meaning-making.

Two major works are forthcoming:

Vanished – A novel about myth, loss, and ecological mystery.

One Choice. One Act. – The No-Bullshit Guide to Living Aligned

As an interdisciplinary artist, I use symbolic realism and abstraction across painting and sculpture to explore the emotional undercurrents of the Anthropocene.

The Philosophy
My approach is no longer about chasing scale, but following resonance. I believe in meaningful connection and shared understanding.

If something here resonates with you, I invite you to connect.

Subscribe → drmatthewking.substack.com