What aspect does the concept of ekistics encompass in its study?

The concept of ekistics is focused on the study of human settlements, encompassing all aspects of how people interact with their environment in relation to built spaces. Developed by architect Constantinos Doxiadis, ekistics emphasizes the design and organization of communities to create harmonious living conditions that consider environmental, social, economic, and cultural factors.

By examining human settlements, ekistics seeks to understand the relationships between people and their habitats, addressing not just the physical layout of a community but also the human behaviors, social dynamics, and ecological impacts that shape living environments. This holistic approach is essential for fostering sustainable development and improving quality of life in different contexts.

While rural planning, urban ecology, and social stratification are relevant fields, they each represent narrower aspects of the broader study of human settlements that ekistics encompasses. Thus, the correct answer reflects the comprehensive nature of ekistics in considering all elements involved in the development and functionality of human communities.