When scientists cannot rely on empirical data to test their theories, they often tend to rely on alternative non-empirical methods. Richard Dawid has argued that there are non-empirical methods of theory assessment, which can provide confirmation for a theory just as experiments do. He used these methods to provide reasons for why string theorists are justified in defending their theory. These methods were subsequently endorsed by many string theorists. In this talk I will introduce Dawid’s method of non-empirical theory assessment and consider its application to theories of quantum gravity. I consider several lessons one may draw from its application and discuss the possible use and misuse it can lead to.