Abstract: Lao Tzu is the most influential philosopher in China and the world.The Taoist philosophy initiated by Lao Tzu and the values and ideals advocated by him,such as the universe being derived from Tao and nourished by virtue,living a simple life with minimal desires and maximum absorption in nature inaction,modesty,concession,kindness and tenderness,benefiting matters without competition,reverence for life,and peace of the world,have a long history and benefit both in ancient and modern times.Carrying forward the universal value of this precious historical and cultural heritage cannot be divorced from the self-reflection,theoretical innovation and practices of contemporary scholars.In order to inherit and innovate Lao Tzus philosophy,it is necessary to fully understand the research status of Lao Tzus philosophy,the history of the research of Lao Tzus philosophy,Taoist culture,and to summarize,analyze and clarify the origin and developments of the history of the research of Lao Tzus philosophy,the outstanding achievements,important issues,theoretical gains and losses in the researches of Lao Tzus philosophy,from the Republic of China to the new period of reform and opening up.Only in this way can we focus on the spirit of the times,track the academic frontier,transform the problem consciousness,innovate the theoretical paradigm,academic thought and research method on the basis of sublating the predecessors,and push Lao Tzus philosophy and Taoist culture to a new realm.

Key words: Lao Tzu, the research of Lao Tzus philosophy, review and reflection, theoretical innovation