Why does Socrates state that he does not care about the happiness of the guardians?

Socrates emphasizes that the happiness of the guardians is not a priority because he views the purpose of the State as serving the greater good of the community rather than individual desires or happiness. In his philosophy, particularly as detailed in "The Republic," he contemplates the role of different classes within the ideal city-state. The guardians, who are entrusted with protecting and ruling, must prioritize the welfare of the whole society over their personal fulfillment.

This perspective highlights the importance of collective well-being and the belief that a truly just society can only be established when those in power act selflessly for the benefit of all citizens. Socrates argues that while guardians have a crucial role, their happiness cannot be the primary concern if it threatens the stability and health of the community. In this way, the guardians are seen as instruments of the State's overall purpose, which is to achieve harmony and justice for the entire society, rather than pursuing their own individual contentment. This philosophy underscores a fundamental idea in Socratic thought that individual happiness must be aligned with the common good to contribute to a well-ordered society.