" I don’t think there is a national pasttime. Watching TV is a national pasttime. Really. If there is a national pasttime, it is watching TV. "
- Michael Lewis

In the given quote, Michael Lewis suggests that television viewing holds a significant place in American culture, perhaps even more so than traditional activities often associated with national pastimes like baseball or apple pie. He implies that watching TV has become an integral part of everyday life for many Americans.

The deeper meaning of this statement lies in its critique of modern society and the role that passive entertainment plays within it. Lewis highlights how television consumption has permeated nearly every aspect of daily routines, overshadowing other forms of leisure activities and social interactions. This observation also touches on the idea that the national pastime might not be a traditional activity but rather an indicator of societal trends and consumer behavior. By pointing out TV watching as a dominant cultural phenomenon, Lewis draws attention to the way technology and media consumption shape contemporary American life.

Michael Lewis is a renowned author known for his investigative journalism and non-fiction books that explore complex financial systems and corporate culture in America. His works often delve into intricate details of economic events and human stories behind them, making him an authoritative voice when discussing cultural shifts and societal trends.