Which is more important: facts or theories?

Question

If the facts contradict a certain theory, which one should be altered?

Answer 1

They are equally important. Theories are built on facts. But, if at some point, fact contradict theory, then the theory needs to be changed or expanded upon to fit the new facts.

Answer 2

Well, I guess I'm going to go against the grain here a little.  I don't take exception to what quizzard said, but I feel that facts are as important as theories.  Without theories, we have lots of meaningless facts.  Without facts, we have no theories at all.  They are mutually dependent.  I really think this question is the same as asking, "Which is more important: words or sentences?"  For me, it is impossible to resolve.

Answer 3

Theories should be altered if you have facts that disprove the theory.

Answer 4

OF COURSE.

THEORIES ARE MORE IMPORTANTE!!

Answer 5

In climate science, theory and unverified models trump observations.  In structural engineering, observations and verified models trump theory.

Observations, if properly observed, documented and archived, are our facts.

It seems obvious to me that facts should prevail over theories.  

Answer 6

The theory, obviously.  

A theory is a set of conjectures on the workings of nature.  It is the best fit for the available facts.  If a fact comes out that contradicts the theory, the theory needs to be adjusted to accommodate the facts.

This is the scientific method.