[300e]
but if they were scientific, then it would no longer be imitation, but the actual perfect reality of which we spoke?Younger Socrates
Yes, assuredly.Stranger
And yet we agreed definitely a while ago that no multitude is able to acquire any art whatsoever.Younger Socrates
Yes, that is definitely agreed.Stranger
Then if there is a kingly1 art, neither the collective body of the wealthy nor the whole people could ever acquire this science of statesmanship.Younger Socrates
No; certainly not.Stranger
Such states, then, it seems, if they are to imitate well, so far as possible, that true form of government—
Yes, assuredly.Stranger
And yet we agreed definitely a while ago that no multitude is able to acquire any art whatsoever.Younger Socrates
Yes, that is definitely agreed.Stranger
Then if there is a kingly1 art, neither the collective body of the wealthy nor the whole people could ever acquire this science of statesmanship.Younger Socrates
No; certainly not.Stranger
Such states, then, it seems, if they are to imitate well, so far as possible, that true form of government—