Correct...no controller.. no electric trailer brakes.
The plug under the dash is hot, but with no controller attached, no feed is given to the back for the trailer. (This essentially what a brake controller does in a controlled manner)

 

alright cool. thanks guys for clearing that up. now i understand it right.

 

Electric brake controllers apply braking pressure as needed in the form of more or less voltage to the trailer brakes-just the same as you pushing more or less on the brake pedal of your vehicle. Some of the more exspensive models also have a "pendant" in them that applies a small amount of braking force if you encounter a steep downgrade so that your trailer doesn't push you off the road.