Disagree. Conversations use to be limited to those hearing them in person. They had limited reach to the participants and those perhaps in earshot. Debate was more respectful but the consequence today for saying something against the current norm has far more potential for life altering consequence.
Real issue with the internet is compartmentalization. Those with any predilection or fetish or political belief can find thousands of like minded people. These self affirming echo chambers build micro communities without the challenge of debate.