Full Idea
The principle of conservatism in choosing between theories is a maxim of minimal mutilation, stating that of competing theories, all other things being equal, choose the one that violates the fewest background beliefs held.
Gist of Idea
The Principle of Conservatism says we should violate the minimum number of background beliefs
Source
Alex Orenstein (W.V. Quine [2002], Ch.2)
Book Reference
Orenstein,Alex: 'W.V. Quine' [Princeton 2002], p.36
A Reaction
In this sense, all rational people should be conservatives. The idea is a modern variant of Hume's objection to miracles (Idea 2227). A Kuhnian 'paradigm shift' is the dramatic moment when this principle no longer seems appropriate.
Related Idea
Idea 2227 A miracle violates laws which have been established by continuous unchanging experience, so should be ignored [Hume]