 However , the discussed distinction is rejected by the majority of Western and Japanese scholars . It is contested by hermeneutic ( interpretive ) difficulties in the categorization of the different Taoist schools , sects and movements . Taoism does not fall under an umbrella or a definition of a single organized religion like the Abrahamic traditions ; nor can it be studied as a mere variant of Chinese folk religion , as although the two share some similar concepts , much of Chinese folk religion is separate from the tenets and core teachings of Taoism . Sinologists Isabelle Robinet and Livia Kohn agree that " Taoism has never been a unified religion , and has constantly consisted of a combination of teachings based on a variety of original revelations . " 
