Vaticanology

Vaticanologist or Vaticanist is a term coined in the mid-to-late twentieth century to describe journalists, academics, and commentators whose area of expertise is in studying and understanding the manner by which the Holy See and the Roman Catholic Church operates. Particular emphasis is placed on the selection and appointment mechanisms by which its leadership elite emerges. Vaticanology is the field that Vaticanists and Vaticanologists function in.