I disagree that the ancient cultural influences of Confucius and Zhuang Zhou are to blame for the problems pervading China's academic research today (Nature 481, 411; 2012). Neither sage encouraged isolation or inhibited intellectual curiosity. I believe that China's problems are exacerbated by insufficient respect for these cultural traditions, which promote such values as objectivity and high moral standards.

China's scientists should be devoting themselves to the advance of research that abides by international scientific standards. Misconduct and other flaws undermine the Chinese government's increased investment in higher education and scientific research.

It is time for the research community in China to rekindle its respect for cultural traditions and to take responsibility for creating a healthy, transparent academic system.