Full Idea
An emotion becomes more under our control, and the mind is less passive in respect to it, in proportion as it is more known to us.
Gist of Idea
An emotion comes more under our control in proportion to how well it is known to us
Source
Baruch de Spinoza (The Ethics [1675], V Pr 03)
Book Reference
Spinoza,Benedict de: 'Ethics, Improvement of Understanding, Letters', ed/tr. Elwes,R [Dover 1955], p.248
A Reaction
This may sound a little optimistic, but it is also obviously true, in the sense that the only proper control we have of our own behaviour is through thought and judgement, which presuppose awareness of what needs controlling.