Final answer:
Thoreau's beliefs reflect an emphasis on self-reliance, as evidenced by his rejection of materialism and his commitment to living a simple, independent life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The passage implies that Thoreau's beliefs align with the emphasis on self-reliance (c). Thoreau's writings and his time spent at Walden Pond exemplify his rejection of materialism and his commitment to living a simple, independent life. He believed that individuals should rely on their own abilities and intuition rather than depending on external sources for guidance.