Taoism is a polytheistic religion and philosophy originating in China. While traditionally regarded as founded by Laozi the Supreme Old Lord in the 4th century BC, some elements and practices can be traced to prehistoric folk religions across the Middle Kingdom. The followers revere Tao, the underlying natural order of the Universe - the active expression of Tao for an individual is Te, the inner virtue. Taoists also value life over death, and believe it is possible to achieve immortality through various methods, including spiritual practices and alchemy.