When do guardians cease to be guardians in the Republic?

In Plato's "Republic," guardians are specifically designated as the philosopher-kings, responsible for the well-being of the city-state and ensuring that justice prevails. They are characterized by their commitment to the truth and their selfless dedication to the common good. Guardians cease to be guardians when they abandon their dedication to the truth. This is critical because their role is based on their ability to understand and uphold profound truths about justice, virtue, and the ideal state.

If guardians were to abandon truth, they undermine the very foundation of their role. Such a departure leads to corruption and misguidance, which would be detrimental to the society that relies on them for leadership and moral guidance. This change in their moral and intellectual integrity is what ultimately disqualifies them from being effective guardians.

Understanding this context clearly illustrates why the abandonment of truth is pivotal in defining the guardians' status and effectiveness in Plato's philosophical framework. The focus on maintaining allegiance to truth is central to their identity, and its loss signifies a shift from their rightful place as protectors of the city-state's ideals.