I grew up on Hip Hop. “The Chronic” was my high school cruising soundtrack. Any time we’d go to the court, someone would leave their car running, crappy speakers blaring out NWA, Dre, Snoop, or even Bone Thugs as we played. Some, but certainly not all, of that music reflected a raw and unfiltered view of life’s struggles, triumphs, and everything in between.
Hip Hop has moved on from those days, but I still yearn to hear the voices of people who have something to say other than “Yaaaya” or “Skeet Skeet.” Hopsin, whose real name is Marcus Jamal Hopson, is one such artist. His “Ill Mind” series has been both motivating and thought-provoking. Today, I want to review “Ill Mind of Hopsin 5” not through the lens of the teen I was, or the middle-aged man I am, but as a Stoic might do. Let’s break down this song and explore how it aligns—or sometimes conflicts—with Stoic philosophy.
Accepting Responsibility
Hopsin begins by expressing shame and embarrassment for participating in a “devilish game,” acknowledging the negative influence this behavior might have on the youth. This admission of guilt and recognition of impact align with the Stoic principle of taking responsibility for one’s actions. In Stoicism, self-awareness and acceptance of one’s mistakes are crucial steps toward self-improvement.
However, he’s not willing to take all the blame, and while I appreciate his point, it does conflict with Stoicism. We don’t get an out. We don’t get a “Well, but see, what had happened was…” No. We have to own our part fully, and even if we can make a valid excuse, we need to leave that excuse-making to other people. Marcus Aurelius reminds us, “You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”
Rationality vs. Impulse
A significant theme in the song is the criticism of impulsive behaviors such as drug use, promiscuity, and the pursuit of superficial pleasures. These critiques resonate strongly with Stoic teachings, which advocate for rational decision-making over succumbing to base impulses. Hopsin’s disdain for these behaviors mirrors the Stoic view that a life led by virtue and reason is superior to one driven by transient desires. Seneca wrote, “It is not the man who has too little, but the man who craves more, that is poor.” By denouncing these impulsive acts, Hopsin aligns with the Stoic pursuit of rational living.
Stoicism isn’t the only philosophy that realized this truth. Much like how we see the Golden Rule in most religions, many philosophical traditions recognize that the human need for more is the ultimate root of our suffering. Buddhism, for instance, speaks of the Four Noble Truths, one of which is that desire and attachment lead to suffering. Similarly, in the Bhagavad Gita, a foundational text in Hindu philosophy, there is an emphasis on detachment from desires and material possessions. These teachings, like Stoicism, encourage individuals to find contentment and purpose through inner virtues and rational thought rather than through the endless pursuit of external pleasures. By addressing these themes, Hopsin not only aligns with Stoic principles but also taps into a universal wisdom that transcends cultures and time itself.
Self-Improvement and Purpose
One of the most compelling aspects of the song is its call for listeners to reflect on their goals and ambitions. Hopsin challenges us to question if our aspirations are meaningful or merely hedonistic pursuits. This aligns perfectly with Stoic teachings, which emphasize the importance of purpose and self-improvement. Stoicism encourages us to define and pursue rational goals that contribute to our personal growth and the well-being of others. The artist’s plea for listeners to “try” and make sacrifices for betterment is a direct echo of Stoic ideals. As Marcus Aurelius advised, “Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.”
Conclusion
Hopsin’s fifth installation of “Ill Mind” calls for a rejection of impulsive, hedonistic behaviors in favor of a more thoughtful, purpose-driven life. Through a Stoic lens, it highlights the importance of rationality, responsibility, and inner virtue. Hopsin’s critique of contemporary societal norms offers a valuable perspective that can serve as a catalyst for self-improvement and philosophical reflection. As we navigate our lives, and even as we listen to music, let us as Stoics embrace these principles and let them guide us toward a more fulfilling and virtuous existence.