That kinda popped up in a different thread:

So what is a right kinda student for a PhD, aside from marks.

In my Department, I find a shift to younger more "hierarchical adaptive" students. Probably a reaction to us individualistic argumentative folk. Does it not also depend on your supervisor? Some like a discussion some just want their peace.

supervisor participation is always welcome. Discussions will create peace but not destroy peace.

Both peace and discussion can be restored until it is seen that discussion does not turn into argument.