A statement that best illustrates "bad faith" is:

The concept of "bad faith," originating from existential philosophy, particularly the work of Jean-Paul Sartre, refers to the denial of one's freedom and responsibility in making choices. When someone attributes their identities or lives solely to external circumstances—like growing up in an alcoholic family—they are essentially rejecting their autonomy and the power they have to create meaning and change in their lives. This view can lead to a sense of victimhood, where a person ignores their ability to take charge of their existence.

The statement that life is shaped by external factors, such as familial situations, reflects a mindset that overlooks personal agency and the existential reality that each individual has the capacity to make choices, even in challenging circumstances. In contrast, the other statements express a recognition of personal agency, acknowledging that one’s decisions and choices play a crucial role in defining identity and shaping life experiences. This contrast highlights the essence of bad faith versus authentic existence, where the latter embraces freedom and responsibility in crafting one’s life direction.