In each of the following questions, a sentence is given with two blanks, indicating that some parts are missing. Choose the option that provides the correct pair of words to fit the blanks, making the sentence grammatically correct and contextually meaningful. The rapid proliferation of autonomous decision-making algorithms has sparked a fierce debate regarding the ________ of their opaque operational protocols, with critics arguing that such systems inherently ________ entrenched societal biases.

The sentence describes a "fierce debate" driven by "critics" regarding artificial intelligence systems that rely on "opaque" (hidden or unclear) protocols. Because the protocols are hidden, critics question their right or validity to make autonomous decisions, which makes "legitimacy" a perfect fit for the first blank. Furthermore, the critics are highlighting a negative aspect of these systems regarding "entrenched societal biases." Algorithms do not typically "condemn" biases; rather, because they are trained on historical data, they tend to repeat or reinforce them. "Perpetuate" (to make something continue indefinitely) fits perfectly here. • Option (a) is incorrect because "mitigate" (to reduce or lessen) contradicts the critical, negative tone of the sentence. • Option (b) is incorrect because "dismantle" is a positive action in the context of biases, which goes against the critics' concerns. • Option (c) is incorrect because algorithms cannot actively "condemn" biases. • Option (e) is incorrect because "subvert" (to undermine) would mean the algorithms are destroying the biases, which again contradicts the critics' warnings.