Final answer:
Vargas likely discusses the complexity of racial and ethnic categorization in the U.S., addressing stereotypes faced by Asians and the distinct classification of Hispanics. He may also talk about the historical context where mixed-race individuals in Spanish America were seen as inferior by the ruling classes, which affected their social mobility.
Step-by-step explanation:
The discussion on race and ethnicity by Vargas likely includes the nuances of racial categories in the United States and how they pertain to Asians and Hispanics. With respect to Asians, they are often placed in a monolithic category which can lead to stereotypes such as the 'model minority' and experiences of invisible racism. For Hispanics, they are frequently considered as an ethnicity rather than a race, leading to complexities in identity and representation. The racial and ethnic composition in society can affect one's social position and experiences of assimilation and discrimination, as seen in historical contexts where people of mixed race had unique social mobility challenges and were subject to both legal and societal discrimination.
During the time of Spanish America, the racial mixing created distinct social structures that differed from Anglo-American society. In Spanish America, there was a hierarchy where Spanish-born 'peninsulares' and American-born 'creoles' held power and viewed mixed-race individuals with disdain. These attitudes reflect social stratifications based on racial and ethnic backgrounds, highlighting the challenges mixed-race individuals faced in pursuing social mobility.