<P> Laozi (Lao Tzu) and other Taoist (Daoist) authors argued for an even greater passivity on the part of rulers than did the Confucians . For Laozi, (Lao Tzu) the ideal ruler is one who does virtually nothing that can be directly identified as ruling . Clearly, both Daoism and Confucianism presume that human nature is basically good . The main branch of Confucianism, however, argues that human nature must be nurtured through ritual (li 禮), culture (wen 文) and other things, while the Daoists (Taoists) argued that the trappings of society were to be gotten rid of . </P> <P> Taoist ethics ask for a greater sense of being and less identification with the act of doing . Taoist passivity nurtures, cultivates and prepares an atmosphere that allows the majestic and the real to shine, which influences society for the better . - "If you want to awaken all of humanity, then awaken all of yourself; if you want to eliminate the suffering in the world, then eliminate all that is dark and negative in yourself . Truly, the greatest gift you have to give is that of your own self - transformation ." - Lao Tzu </P> <P> Ethics is called Nitisastra (Sanskrit: नीतिशास्त्र) in ancient texts of Hinduism . Ethics and virtue are a much debated and an evolving concept in ancient scriptures of Hinduism . Virtue, right conduct, ethics and morality are part of the complex concept Hindus call Dharma - everything that is essential for people, the world and nature to exist and prosper together, in harmony . As P.V. Kane, the author of the History of Dharmasastra said, the term "Dharma" does not have a synonym in English language . While it is often interpreted as meaning "duty", it can mean justice, right, moral, good, and much more . </P> <P> Ethics are explained in Hindu philosophy as something that cannot be imposed, but something that is realized and voluntarily lived up to by each individual . For example, Apastamba explained it thus: "virtue and vice do not go about saying - here we are!; neither the Gods, Gandharvas, nor ancestors can convince us - this is right, this is wrong; virtue is an elusive concept, it demands careful and sustained reflection by every man and woman before it can become part of one's life . </P>

Where do religious ethics come from and what role do they play in the practice of religion