It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia season 16 introduces the SINNED System, a successor to the infamous DENNIS System. While the DENNIS System has been widely regarded as one of the gang's worst actions, the SINNED System introduced in episode 4 poses a serious challenge to its predecessor.
Frank Reynolds and Charlie participate in a chess tournament in season 16, episode 4 of "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" titled "Frank vs. Russia." They quickly climb the ranks in Philadelphia, showcasing their exceptional chess skills. Meanwhile, Dennis is determined to free himself from the constant nagging of Dee and Mac. Throughout the episode, he devises a plan to help them find dates, which cleverly references the infamous DENNIS System.
Dennis Introduces A Second System Of Seduction After 14 Years In It's Always Sunny Season 16
The DENNIS System, featured in season 5, episode 10 of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, is a renowned method of seduction. Dennis, a character in the show, claims that it is an infallible approach to attracting women and frequently employs it to secure dates. The system consists of six steps: demonstrating value, engaging physically, nurturing dependence, neglecting emotionally, inspiring hope, and eventually separating entirely. However, Dennis acknowledges that this method is solely effective on women. Consequently, he develops a new system, the SINNED System, to assist Dee and Mac in attracting men.
The SINNED System incorporates certain elements from the DENNIS System, cleverly spelling "DENNIS" backward to form "SINNED." However, it also introduces modifications to cater specifically to men. Comprised of six steps, the SINNED System involves suppressing one's instincts, boosting his ego, depending on his power, counteracting his power, engaging in physical interaction, and concluding with the question, "Do you want a tissue?" Although it may not be as straightforward as the DENNIS System, the SINNED System appears to be effective, serving as a remarkable continuation of one of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia's most memorable jokes.
The SINNED System Isn't Nearly As Bad As The DENNIS System
While both the SINNED System and the DENNIS System are considered unfavorable, it is evident that the DENNIS System is significantly more detrimental than its counterpart. Both systems rely on manipulation and generalizations, with the user strategically implanting ideas in the victim's mind to achieve their desired outcome. However, the DENNIS System takes it a step further by isolating the woman and creating a complete dependency on the user. This system employs techniques such as negging, neglect, and reinforcing negative beliefs about the victim's own self, rendering it an abhorrent practice that should never be employed in real life.
The SINNED System, although not perfect, represents a step forward from the DENNIS System. Unlike its predecessor, the SINNED System focuses on boosting the ego of men rather than belittling them. Interestingly, it is the user of the SINNED System who experiences the demeaning effect. While the SINNED System still incorporates some unconventional Freudian concepts, it is notably less problematic than the DENNIS System, suggesting a certain level of growth among the characters in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia.