I think natural growth is due to mass hysteria and hype. Most people approach the blockchain mainly because of the financial aspects. Only a very few percentage take a look at the technology behind it.
Bitcoin has thrived long enough because it projected financial value, but when it comes down to the basic blockchain advantages, the problems of bitcoin begin to surface.
So, a more refined research into how blockchain can transform the overall economy is what top tier influences are after and not just temporal financial prospects.
Case in point; when you hear of regulation and standardization, it's not just pertaining to bitcoin but blockchain and all of its products. However, when you hear of a 'BAN' it most likely has to do with cryptocurrencies of which bitcoin is the most referred to (like you said 'king of crypto') and ICOs only because of unregulated and anonymous crowdfunding source and destinations.
Yeah, i agree. Cryptocurrency hype is one of the major factor that drives the community, and if that is taken away the system may crumble.