The fact that scientific research does not support the idea that poor eyesight makes people smarter is no surprise. However, it's quite clear that people who wear glasses are seen as bookish and smart. Whether it's due to the strain on their brains from poor eyesight or some other factor is a moot point. It's still true that people with glasses are often thought of as intelligent.
Furthermore, Nikhil's point that having perfect vision is a disadvantage still stands. It's true that people with perfect vision are just as likely to excel academically as those with glasses, but this does not mean that those with perfect vision have an advantage. The fact is, even though they may be able to see clearly without having an extra strain on their brains, they are still being judged against those who have to make extra effort to see clearly.
So while the retort to Nikhil's essay might be correct in saying that there is no scientific evidence to back up his theory, it doesn't change the fact that people with glasses are seen as smarter than those without. UrRong; the stereotype of those with glasses being bookish and smart is rooted in cultural perceptions, not science. And while having perfect vision may not give one an edge when it comes to intelligence, it certainly doesn't make them any less intelligent than those who need glasses. So let's applaud Nikhil for having perfect vision, but let's also celebrate those who wear glasses and have to put forth extra effort to keep their eyesight in good shape!