Final answer:
The guiding principle to resolve conflicts between personal or organizational interests and public interest is acting with public spirit, considering the common good and general welfare of the public. Politics and public policy decisions should be guided by what is beneficial or helpful to society as a whole, aligning with the principle of beneficence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The guiding principle used to resolve conflicts between the interests of the client or one's employer and the public interest is acting with a sense of public spirit. Public spirit, as opposed to altruism, implies incorporating the considerations of the well-being of others while making decisions. It suggests that individuals understand the interests of the public and integrate these interests into their decisions, rather than sacrificing self-interest solely for the benefit of others.
In the context of public policy, the public interest is an overarching concept that entails the well-being, common good, or general welfare of the public. Political actors and stakeholders who claim to act in the public interest are often guided by notions of social justice and the promotion of a society that provides for the common good and promotes general welfare. This is evident in normative political science, which explores ethical dimensions of politics, including what is considered 'good' and 'right', and how power should be exercised.
Therefore, professionals are expected to act in ways that are beneficial to the public, exhibiting the principle of beneficence. This involves acting in ways that advance the interests of the public and considering the common good over individual or organizational gains, especially when public policy or public welfare is at stake.