Why so few secondary characters in later Trek?

[Christopher]

All this tells me is that Berman had a different opinion than Behr on how to proceed, not that he "stifled creativity" or was a "yes man" or didn't have "creative vision".

What's wrong with a different opinion? That's what generates discussion, debate etc.

Right. Arguments like that are probably part of the process on any show. Everyone's trying to make the best show they can, but different people inevitably have different ideas about how to do that.

I just wish Berman had caught Behr on the whole Sisko-as-part-prophet nonsense!

Actually he's entirely human; it's just that the Prophets possessed his biological mother long enough to make sure she conceived him (which is still pretty creepy when you think about it).

I wish fans would one day realise just what a massive positive impact Berman had on all Trek post-1987. You don't have to like everything he did/was involved in, but he was essential to TNG, DS9, Voyager and Enterprise (and of course, movies 7-10).

True. I have my quibbles with many of Berman's creative choices, but there's no denying that his hard work, commitment, and attention to detail as a producer were vital to the success and quality of the Trek franchise at its peak.