I agree with this. Moreover, people who do fall into addicted behaviors are often very aware of the risks and dangers involved with their choices. However, the present desire or satisfaction that the impulse provides them overrides such awareness. As an ex smoker, this is apparent to me. I knew it was bad, I knew the details of what I was doing to myself, but I couldn’t help myself.

It is not about stupidity or awareness. It is about finding satisfaction or motivation elsewhere. Educated people, rich people, poor people, ignorant people: all classes have their addictions.