(46) The value which society places on work has traditionally been closely associated with the value of individualism and as a result it has had negative effects on the development of social security. It has meant that in the first place the amount of benefits must be small lest people‘s willingness to work and support themselves suffers. (47)Even today with flat rate and earnings-related benefits, the total amount of the benefit must always be smaller than the person‘s wages for fear of malingering (诈病). “The purpose of social security,” said Huntford referring to Sweden‘s comparatively generous benefits, “is to dispel need without crossing the threshold of prosperity.” (48) Second, social security benefits are granted under conditions designed to reduce the likelihood of even the boldest of spirits attempting to live on the State rather than work. Many of the rules surrounding the payment of unemployment or supplementary benefit are for this purpose. (49) Third, the value placed on work is manifested in a more positive way as in the case of disability. (50) People suffering from accidents incurred at work or from occupational diseases receive preferential treatment by the social security service compared with those suffering from civil accidents and ordinary illnesses.