Zombies: a metaphor for Unthinking Masses?

[Koolay]

I don't think it is a critique of consumers,

Then you don't get the entire point of the film. Romero has even said it himself... he has made it quite clear.

Metaphors can be consciously and subconsciously written. If you could just say what you mean, then it wouldn't be art.

People shopping peacefully doesn't really strike an emotional cord.

People attacking consumers and destroying shops, is a lot more powerful considering that is what the government is in progress of doing right now.