I took because and gave it as positive value then I selected the phrase concerned about its reputation for the left side of because and gave it a positive value as it is a good thing to be concerned. So we have positive times positive equals positive. But then I realize that for the blank any positive word doesn’t fit the context. So I have this confusion that in many cases we usually see to the left side of the because right? but this time in the solution which Greg gave it showed that he took the phrase misdeeds of individuals which is on the right side of because. Could you please help me clear this confusion?
The word ‘because’ here is used to connect these two ideas. The ‘misdeeds of individuals’ (negative) are the reason why the ‘institution is at the mercy of the actions of its members’ (neutral).
So, in this context, the blank should be filled with a word that indicates a negative impact on the institution due to the misdeeds of its members. Words like ‘criticize’, ‘condemn’ or ‘denigrate’ could fit.