Can't Change Version

I am using Debian 10.10 Buster.  I'm not sure if it's just Linux or me or the launcher but when I go to create a new Installation profile, and want to use a different version, and click on it, it just automatically switches back to 1.17.1, so i went into the versions folder, there is only 1.17.1 and a .json file. I also have other problems with my launch, like when i choose to use a different profile on the MCL play screen it just goes back to latest release, another problem i have is when i try to use the edit option on my skin, it just selects the skin. I would appreciate some help with this. Many Thanks.