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[528e] which deals with the movements of solids.” “That is right,” he said. “Then, as our fourth study,” said I, “let us set down astronomy, assuming that this science, the discussion of which has been passed over, is available,1 provided, that is, that the state pursues it.” “That is likely,” said he; “and instead of the vulgar utilitarian2 commendation of astronomy, for which you just now rebuked me, Socrates, I now will praise it on your principles.

1 i.e. “assuming this to exist,” “vorhanden sein,” which is the usual meaning of ὑπάρχειν in classical Greek. The science, of course, is solid geometry, which is still undeveloped, but in Plato's state will be constituted as a regular science through endowed research.

2 Cf. Vol. I. p. 410, note c, on 442 E, Gorg. 482 E, Rep. 581 D, Cratyl. 400 A, Apol. 32 A, Aristot.Pol. 1333 b 9.

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