Final answer:
Professor Ellis likely brought up Amy Cuddy due to her research on the effects of body language on confidence and social dynamics, which is relevant to lessons on psychological influence and self-perception in social environments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Professor Ellis likely discussed Amy Cuddy because of Cuddy's work related to social psychology, particularly her research on body language and its impact on personal and professional dynamics.
Cuddy's famous 'power pose' study suggests that adopting powerful, expansive poses can foster self-confidence and might influence outcomes in social interactions, such as job interviews or public speaking.
Amy Cuddy's research aligns with the topics of self-perception, communication, and psychological influence, which are crucial in understanding social dynamics in various environments, including workplaces and educational settings.
Discussing Cuddy's work could provide valuable insights into the psychological mechanisms that underpin confidence and interpersonal relations, making it relevant for students studying social sciences.