5 An alternative approach assumes that welfare state preferences are also shaped by cultural norms and values. Beliefs about the deservingness of welfare beneficiaries, social mobility, luck as a determinant of economic success and religious orientations influence these norms (Linos and West, 2003; Bénabou and Tirole, 2006; Scheve and Stasavage, 2006; van Oorschot, 2006).