Final answer:
The statement that best develops the theme about people's tendency to ignore evidence is Gatsby's incredulous claim that you can repeat the past, showing his refusal to accept the irreversible nature of time and his clinging to an idealized memory. The correct answer is "Can't repeat the past?" [Gatsby ]cried incredulously. "Why of course you can!" He looked around him wildly, as if the past were lurking here in the shadow of his house, just out of reach of his hand.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that helps the MOST to develop the theme 'People often ignore evidence that contradicts what they wish to be true' is: "Can't repeat the past?" [Gatsby] cried incredulously. "Why of course you can!" He looked around him wildly, as if the past were lurking here in the shadow of his house, just out of reach of his hand.
This statement illustrates the character's desire to deny the reality of irreversible time and change, clinging instead to the illusion that one can recreate the past. Gatsby's desperation to hold onto his idealized memories and his refusal to accept the truth reflects the theme of self-deception and the human tendency to reject evidence that contradicts deeply held desires.