my interpretation of this chapter is that the zqn phenomenon is an expression of the collective will of mankind, and by extension all sentient life. the question "zombies or not" implies that the zqn are more alive than dead and their actions arent simply imitations of life but living truly to themselves, in a way. the zqn's constant cycles of destruction and assimilation are natural expressions of conflict and discontent as they collectively strive towards nirvana, i guess.