The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.

The saying distinguishes “sight” (mere visual perception) from “vision” (imagination, foresight, moral purpose, and the ability to see meaning). Keller’s paradox is pointed: physical blindness is a hardship, but it can be less devastating than possessing normal senses while lacking aspiration or understanding. The line functions as a critique of complacency—people may look at the world yet fail to grasp its possibilities or responsibilities. In Keller’s broader rhetorical universe, “vision” also implies empathy and social conscience: true seeing involves recognizing others’ needs and acting toward a larger good, not simply registering appearances.

1) “The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.”
2) “Worse than being blind is having sight and no vision.”
3) “The only thing worse than blindness is having sight without vision.”