This makes a lot of sense. In the Catholic philosophical tradition, intellectual activity is understood to be a discursive / categorical type of activity. One seeks to understand the world by breaking it up and putting it together in a logical sort. In fact, it’s also supposed to be extremely joyful activity, like reassembling a puzzle.

Aquinas was a statistically sensitive person. He didn’t see moral behavior as a matter of sheer will, but of mere probability. Based on my past experience and understand of reality, what is the probability that I will be tempted to steal if I am alone in a room with unguarded money? Higher than if I never enter the room.

It may sound “weak” to avoid temptation, but we don’t think that way about other dangers. You’re not “weak” for keeping fire far from gasoline. You’re not “weak” for diversifying investments to decrease risk. You’re smart! The wise people are those who can read the signs of trouble and get out before there’s a chance to fall down.