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[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—


1 See 292 E.

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