CHINA set up its first Lao Tzu (Laozi) research institute last week, at Sichuan University. March 11 is believed to be date of birth of the ancient sage and Taoism's central figure – 2,580 years ago. Zhan Shichuang, a Sichuan University philosophy professor, said the move would help promote the teachings of Lao Tzu, who is regarded as the quintessential spirit of Chinese thought. His ideas differ from those of Confucius and his affirmation of active involvement in external affairs. Lao Tzu values self-descipline and individual perfection to achieve the harmony of all beings with no interference from others. Recently, Lao Tzu's spirit of individual development has attracted the interest of more people.