The University of Gloucestershire kicks off its 2017/18 Public Lecture Series with a closer look at social media.

Dr David Webster will ask is it social media the ultimate democratic ideal or just a dystopian disappointment?

The lecture, which will be held at Park Campus in Cheltenham on Wednesday 11th October, will also consider how social media provides an equal platform where everyone can find their voice and will explore the potential dangers of big brother's data.

Dr Webster is the Head of Learning and Teaching Innovation at the University of Gloucestershire.

He was selected by Jisc, the education sector's technology solutions not-for-profit organisation, as one of the top 50 most influential higher education professionals on social media.

Dr David Webster said: "Whether we use Facebook to connect with our grandchildren, snapchat our best friend from the bus queue, live tweet as we watch Eurovision, or use social media professionally, its pervasive reach into our lives is huge. This lecture will try and take a big picture, and assess how social media relates to democracy, to our futures, and what those companies are doing with all that data."

This year's Public Lecture series programme includes talks on exploring the future of artificial intelligence and the secrets behind the lucky scientists.

Admission to the lecture is free, but tickets need be reserved in advance .