【正确答案】As the world is entering an era of scientific innovations and knowledge explosion, there is increasing need for independent thinking, the importance of which can never be exaggerated. Since ancient times, western education has attached importance to the cultivation of independent thinking. Unlike schools in China, western schools encourage students to go to the library to seek answers to an assigned topic for themselves. They are expected to ask questions and challenge the teacher who might be very pleased if proven to be wrong by a particular student. Students educated this way will grow up curious and inquisitive. In scientific research, the ability to think for oneself is critical to innovations or breakthroughs. Those who take everything for granted can hardly come up with new ideas, let alone become high-achievers. Fortunately, the shift to quality-oriented teaching in China has highlighted the importance to enhancing students' ability to think independently. On some tests, test-takers are required to present their own opinions rather than write down ready answers. It takes time, but there is the hope that students can learn to think critically.