# The Drake-Kendrick Rap Rivalry: A Study in Collective Psychology
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Chapter 1: Understanding Mob Psychology
This article discusses unsettling allegations that may be distressing for some readers. One of the most notorious instances of "mob psychology" is the Salem Witch Trials, a clear illustration of human irrationality. The same psychological forces that led to that historical absurdity can emerge in any society, at any time. Other notable occurrences, such as the Red Scares and the internment of Japanese-Americans, highlight this phenomenon. Even smaller-scale events, like the trial following the Boston Massacre or the Central Park 5 case, reveal similar dynamics. Sometimes, a national paranoia takes hold; other times, it affects just an individual or a small group. Regardless of the scale, the underlying behavior remains consistent.
Four main aspects of mob psychology facilitate its harmful perpetuation: 1) it disregards nuance, 2) it equates those who defend the accused with the accused themselves, 3) it incentivizes those who endorse its objectives, and 4) it commits harm in the name of good.
To illustrate these points, I will delve into a surprising case study: the recent rap feud between superstars Aubrey Graham (Drake) and Kendrick Lamar. This ongoing situation, which I followed closely, serves as an apt demonstration of the phenomenon.
Section 1.1: The Drake vs. Kendrick Showdown
For those unfamiliar, two iconic, platinum-selling rappers recently engaged in a fierce exchange of diss tracks. For hip-hop enthusiasts, this event is a rare spectacle, and social media was buzzing with commentary.
After Kendrick Lamar released his first full diss track, I found myself unwell and took a few days off work. This unexpected break allowed me to closely monitor the unfolding lyrical battle. Initially, I perceived this downtime as fortunate, as the sensational rap feud provided ample entertainment. However, in retrospect, I realized it may have been unfortunate timing, as I was disheartened by the rapid escalation of events.
Wild allegations flew in both directions, but Kendrick's accusations against Drake were particularly severe, insinuating that Drake was a pedophile, potentially even a sex trafficker.
To illustrate, consider Kendrick's lyrics from "Not Like Us":
> "Say, Drake, I hear you like 'em young
> You better not ever go to cell block one
> To any b**ch that talks to him and they in love
> Just make sure you hide your lil' sister from him"
> "Certified Lover Boy?
> Certified pedophiles"
> "Tryna strike a chord and it's probably A-Minor"
While insults and allegations are typical in rap rivalries, this case took a troubling turn as many individuals accepted Kendrick's claims without question. Shortly after the release of the provocative track, violence erupted outside Drake's residence, with online commentators asserting that, as a "pedophile," Drake deserved such retribution.
Drake's ongoing sale of his U.S. properties was interpreted by some as an attempt to evade justice. Numerous comments likened him to R. K