What theory considers the dependency of people on automobiles within urban planning?

The correct answer focuses on how urban environments are structured around multiple centers of activity, which reflects a dependence on automobiles. The Multiple Nuclei Theory, developed by Chauncy Harris and Edward Ullman, posits that modern cities grow not just around a single central point but rather around several nodes or "nuclei." This theory takes into account that urban development often occurs in a decentralized manner, with various functions and activities clustered around different centers instead of a centralized downtown area.

In the context of automobile dependency, the theory acknowledges that as cities expand, the reliance on cars increases. People are often required to drive from one nucleus to another, making transportation by automobile essential for accessing jobs, shopping, and services located at various nodes across the urban landscape. This shift reflects broader trends in suburbanization and the development of city layouts that prioritize vehicle access, accommodating the lifestyle patterns of residents who depend on cars for mobility within the city.

The other theories mentioned do not specifically address automobile dependency in the same way. The Concentric Zone Theory suggests a model of urban social structures based on concentric circles, typically centered around a downtown area. Sector Theory indicates that urban land use develops in sectors radiating out from the center, which does not inherently emphasize car dependency