(3) Lastly, this emotion (III:[xlviii] ), in so
far as it is attributable to several causes, is less powerful in regard
to each of them. Q.E.D.
Prop. [X] So long as we are not assailed by emotions
contrary to our nature, we have the power of
arranging and associating the modifications
of our body according to the intellectual order.
Proof.- (10:1) The emotions, which are contrary to our nature, that is
(IV:[xxx] ), which are bad, are bad in so far as they impede the mind
from understanding (IV:[xxvii] ). (2) So long, therefore, as we are not
assailed by emotions contrary to our nature, the mind's power, whereby
it endeavours to understand things (IV:[xxvi] ), is not impeded, and
therefore it is able to form clear and distinct ideas and to deduce them
one from another (II:[xl] Note. ii. and II:[xlvii] Note); consequently
we have in such cases the power of arranging and associating the
modifications of the body according to the intellectual order. Q.E.D.
Note.- (10:3) By this power of rightly arranging and associating the
bodily modifications we can guard ourselves from being easily affected
by evil emotions. (4) For (V:[vii] ) a greater force is needed for
controlling the emotions, when they are arranged and associated according
to the intellectual order, than when they, are uncertain and unsettled.
(10:5) The best we can do, therefore, so long as we do not possess a
perfect knowledge of our emotions, is to frame a system of right conduct,
or fixed practical precepts, to commit it to memory, and to apply it
forthwith to the particular circumstances which now and again meet us in
life, so that our imagination may become fully imbued therewith, and that
it may be always ready to our hand.
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