How does the random definition create a new picture of what we already know?

The Kuiper belt is the new discovery along and some of these are just as big and made of the same stuff (ice) as Pluto. Right now there is no standard definition of Planet, so a definition is being decided so that the new objects can be classified. Unless you decide that planet has no meaning other than 'the 9 objects that we've always called planets', then the picture is going to change no matter what. The discussion is really whether 'planet' is going to mean a few large objects, or dozens or hundreds of small ones.

I didn't mean it as a slam, just a goofy explanation.

I wasn't offended. But here's the thing-- why would scientists be more interested in a legacy than with progress?

I got the cutest shoes ever in Hong Kong. [link]

So cute.

Ooh, those are cute. Did you get a custom suit made? (This is why I want to go to Hong Kong.)

I did, and so did my sister! Mine is a tropical-weight wool, in a very fine black/blue herringbone print. Skirt, jacket, slacks. Cost about $400 American, and they did it in about 36 hours. I was very impressed.

Ooooh. I am now super-jealous.

why would scientists be more interested in a legacy than with progress?

I think this is kinda tied to Pluto as an object of public opinion. I mean, the whole naming of it was part of public discourse (the IAU has since gotten picky and made themselves the final arbiter these days.) I almost feel like they are being nutso over this issue because they don't want to piss off a public sort of raised on this whole public-sentimentally-owned planet. Which is goofy, scientists are so not immune from goofy.

I just figured they were doing it because it would make categorisation and teaching and stuff easier down the road. Even if it makes things more difficult for us now. They do it in botany all. the freaking. time. And I get why, but when you've been calling something one thing all your life, sometimes it's hard to remember to switch it.

Right now there is no standard definition of Planet, so a definition is being decided so that the new objects can be classified.

They can be called Secondary Planets, Planets That Were Stuffed in Lockers, Wudllepumpers, Planutia Minor, whatev. There's nothing to stop them from being called planets, or tube socks, or space tangerines. "If we include Pluto, it'll be anarchy! There will be millions of planets! We'll have to memorize all of them!" Is a bullshit answer.

First they take away the brontosaurus. Now it's Pluto. What next? Are they going to repeal gravity? The scientists must be stopped!

Well, it turns out that pandas ARE bears so SUCK IT SCIENTISTS -- sometimes the eight year olds are right.