What term does Socrates use to describe the rulers of his ideal state?

In Socratic philosophy, particularly as presented in "The Republic," the term used to describe the rulers of the ideal state is "Guardians." This concept is central to Socrates' vision of a just society, where the Guardians are philosophers who possess wisdom and virtue. They are responsible for making decisions that ensure the well-being of the state and its citizens.

Socrates argues that merely having power is not sufficient for good governance; those in charge must have a deep understanding of justice, morality, and the common good. Guardians are not just rulers in the traditional sense; they are trained to be knowledgeable and to prioritize the welfare of the community over personal desires or ambitions.

This idea contrasts with other possible terms like "Kings" or "Dictators," which often denote rulers who govern primarily for their own benefit or through authoritarian means, rather than for the collective good. The notion of Guardians emphasizes the importance of philosophical wisdom in leadership, advocating for a government led by those who truly understand the nature of justice and the needs of the society they serve.