Final answer:
The Earth-centered theory that posited Earth as the center of the universe is known as the geocentric model or Ptolemaic view, which was later replaced by the heliocentric model endorsed by Copernicus and evidenced by Galileo.
Step-by-step explanation:
The early theory that considered the Earth as the center of the universe is known as the geocentric model or Ptolemaic view. This Earth-centered perspective was widely accepted until the European Renaissance. Ancient astronomers, observing the movements of celestial bodies such as the Sun, Moon, and planets, initially found that their movements appeared to revolve around the Earth. This model was refined over the centuries with additional circular paths to account for more complex observations. However, this geocentric model was eventually supplanted by the heliocentric model associated with Copernicus, which posits the Sun as the center of the solar system. Galileo's use of the telescope provided crucial evidence that supported this new understanding of the cosmos, leading to a philosophical shift and the demotion of Earth's central position in the universe.