The initial rejection of the scientist's theory implies that a change in attitude occurred at a later point due to new evidence or findings. In this context, the blank in the sentence should be filled with a word that indicates a positive shift resulting from new information. Let's analyze the options:
- Denied: This would imply the theory remains unaccepted, conflicting with the notion of later acceptance due to new research.
- Supported: This means the theory was later backed or confirmed by new research, aligning with the correction from initial rejection to acceptance.
- Ignored: Suggests no attention was paid, which does not fit the context of later acceptance or consideration.
- Destroyed: Opposes the idea of later validation; instead, it implies further invalidation.
Therefore, the most fitting word to complete the sentence sensibly and based on the presented context is: Supported