The Highland Meeting in Utah on November 24, 2024, featured a discussion led by Chris Herrod, focusing on the themes of truth and misinformation in the context of Ukraine. Herrod emphasized the challenges posed by bureaucratic governance, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, where reliance on specialists became prevalent. He expressed concern that this reliance has led to a disconnect between experts and the general public, which he believes undermines informed decision-making.

Herrod illustrated his point with a reference to a meme involving Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting how public perception often contradicts official narratives. He argued that the public's trust in specialists, such as health officials during the pandemic, can lead to detrimental outcomes, particularly in education and child development. Herrod shared personal anecdotes about his children’s struggles during COVID-19 restrictions, suggesting that bureaucratic decision-making often overlooks the real-world implications for families.

Throughout the meeting, Herrod called for a return to a more educated society where individuals can critically assess information rather than relying solely on experts. He criticized the notion that specialists possess all the answers, advocating instead for a Socratic approach that encourages diverse opinions and discussions.

The meeting underscored the importance of fostering critical thinking and open dialogue in addressing misinformation, particularly in the context of international issues like the situation in Ukraine. Herrod's remarks resonate with ongoing debates about the role of expertise in governance and the need for public engagement in policy discussions.