Why do group discussion participants need to gather facts? to support their opinions to show they can do research to prove they have opinions to manage the discussion’s flow? !

The correct answer would be "To support their opinions".

In any kind of group discussion there will most likely be a variety of opinions. The flow will be dictated by the ability of each participant in expressing serious interpretations in a respectful manner. The role of fact presentation or data gathering isn't to prove that you can do research but to make your point stronger with empirical facts, statistics or studies that bring an element of objectivity.

Hope this helps!

A. Support their opinions.

the old way of life was represented by superstition, an angry god, and absolute submission to authority. the thinkers of the age of reason ushered in a new way of thinking. this new way championed the accomplishments of humankind. individuals did not have to accept despair. science and reason could bring happiness and progress. kings did not rule by divine right. they had an obligation to their subjects. europeans pondered the implications for nearly a century. americans put them into practice first.