ABSTRACT
This chapter examines how two symbolic resources, that is, cultural modernisation and scientific reasoning, are constituted by events and processes in the data which like floating signs are mobilised, move and form these two symbolic resources. Schooling plays a role as a sign of cultural modernisation, and some of the welfare workers tell that they simply like their job better – it is more fun – when the immigrant or refugee is an educated person. Cultural modernisation involves a civilising and normalising process, but also a continual process of separation and division which keeps immigrants and refugees on the threshold of modern living. Another symbolic resource pertaining to culture which is mobilised is scientific reasoning put forth as both a result and an intrinsic and highly estimated value of modern society. It is especially put forth by health care personnel and police officers, but also adult educators and school teachers.
