Which scholar identified four domains of religion: discourse, practice, community, and institution?

The scholar who identified the four domains of religion—discourse, practice, community, and institution—is indeed the correct choice. Thomas A. E. Lincoln is known for his analytical framework that breaks down religion into these essential components. This classification helps in understanding the multifaceted nature of religious life.

Discourse refers to the ways in which religious beliefs are articulated and communicated, including sacred texts and teachings. Practice encompasses the rituals and actions that followers engage in as expressions of their faith. Community focuses on the social group formed around shared beliefs and practices, creating a sense of belonging among its members. Finally, institution pertains to the organized structures and formalities within which religious life is conducted, such as churches, temples, and religious organizations.

This framework allows for a comprehensive analysis of how religion operates both on individual and societal levels. In contrast, while the other scholars mentioned contributed significantly to the study of religion—such as Paul Tillich’s exploration of religion in terms of ultimate concerns, Émile Durkheim’s focus on the social functions of religion, and Sigmund Freud’s psychological perspective on religious belief—they did not specifically delineate these four domains as Lincoln did.