Why do scientific theories change?

Answer 1

Non-scientists might think that changing a scientific theory means it was wrong. The theory may or may not have been wrong. Scientists are usually not upset when they have been found to be incorrect. Here's why-- Science is the best way humans have of explaining the world. Theories change all the time as smaller issues get resolved and revisited. Adjustments and changes to theories are common. When new tools get introduced (such as a bigger telescope), scientists know that theories will change and new discoveries will be made. Current theories that are changing daily-- "How was the universe formed?" "How did life begin"? "Was there ever life on Mars"? "What is all that DNA for?" "How do we make more efficient solar cells?" "What will happen with global warming, and how can we modify it?" For some of these we have pretty good ideas, for some of these there are major puzzles. But it is the best we know how to do.