In this paper, we connect two different debates in philosophy of science: the debate on the scientific legitimacy of string theory, and the debate on whether some epistemic values count as minimal criteria that need to be exhibited by any acceptable theory. Our two main claims are as follows. Firstly, we maintain that the debate on minimal criteria needs to be addressed by turning to the history of science. Secondly, we argue that the current prominence of string theory within high-energy physics suggests that empirical adequacy, understood as demonstrated agreement between theory and evidence, is not an indisputable minimal criterion.