This report presents a review of research on group discussion as used in adult education within the context of the nature of man and in relation to his ultimate end of self-realization. The review considers (1) those factors involved in group discussion; (2) its broad purposes, for example, mutual education, affecting self-concept, and attitudes and interpersonal change; and (3) approaches to it, for example, the leadership role, nonmanipulative approaches, and human relations and sensitivity training. Discussion is also examined in the service of institutions--parent education, religious education, education for aging, and public affairs discussion. Discussion and the mass media are reviewed, that is, international uses, community education, and a recent scientific approach. Such pitfalls to be avoided as mechanistic values, educational chauvinism, intellectual elitism, and the tyranny of numbers are analyzed. The final chapter deals with the "Precipice of Infinity" in which the following topics are discussed: affective and intellectual self-actualization, and ideal discussion groups, and whether life itself is at stake. (Author)