ON VIRTUE AND VICE.

Although in this world, where the shadows of ignorance and the darkness of concupiscence dominate, it is difficult to discern between true virtue and its deceptive appearance, yet natural reason, illuminated by divine grace, opens the way for us. For virtue, as the Philosopher refers to Aristotle rightly defines it, is an elective habit consisting in the mean, determined by right reason.

Virtue is not idle, but active; it consists not in thought alone, but in action. Conversely, vice, which is an evil habit, corrupts reason and inclines the will toward the illicit.

On the Distinction of Virtues

1. Theological Virtues: Faith, Hope, Charity. These are infused by God.
2. Cardinal Virtues: Prudence, Justice, Fortitude, Temperance. These are acquired through habit.

"Virtue stands in the middle, and vices hem it in on both sides."