What is "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 operate. Particular emphasis is placed on the selection and appointment mechanisms by which the Church's leadership emerges. Vaticanology is the field in which Vaticanists and Vaticanologists function.