Reflection on logistics
<\/strong>Logistical activities have always accompanied human communities, although the subject matter of the term “logistics” has changed. The term “logistics” is likely of Greek origin, as indicated by the meaning of words such as: logos<\/em> – counting, reason; logistike<\/em> – the art of calculating; logistikon<\/em> – the power of reason, common sense; logike<\/em> – logic. Close in meaning is the Latin adjective logisticus<\/em>, meaning: understandable, rational, capable of logical thinking. From these also derives the narrower concept of logistique<\/em>, which in French means: transport, quartering, and supplying troops.<\/p>
Analyzing the definitions of logistics found in various encyclopedias and starting from the Greek and Roman roots of this concept, logistics is viewed as a field of knowledge about rationalizing and calculating solutions. Accordingly, two main branches have emerged in logistics: mathematical-philosophical and pragmatic (applied logistics). A number of definitions point to logistics as a science, and selected ones are cited below: R. Jüneman claims that logistics is: “a scientific theory of planning, controlling, and monitoring the flow of materials, people, energy, and information in systems”. According to W. Kirch, I. Bamberger, E. Gable, and H.K. Klein, logistics is a scientific discipline concerned with explaining, describing, and shaping processes. In turn, Cz. Skowronek and Z. Sarjusz-Wolski write about logistics as a management philosophy and a field of knowledge. In almost every definition from the area of military logistics, we can also find an element of science or knowledge. In the definition adopted by: the Polish Armed Forces – “Logistics is a scientific discipline…”; in NATO – “Logistics is the science of…”; and according to E. Nowak – military logistics is “…a field of knowledge…”.<\/p>
Despite the fact that many researchers point to logistics as a category of science or knowledge, it has not yet achieved substantive foundations and theories, either in Poland or globally. This is pointed out by P. Blaik, who writes: “Logistics, due to its interdisciplinary nature and relatively modest Polish pedigree, is a field that is in many aspects controversial and requires intensive and comprehensive research”. However, the development of logistics is being observed, and its theoretical achievements are becoming increasingly rich and diverse. In the existing theoretical achievements of logistics, we can distinguish several diverse trends: pragmatic (empirical), information technology, mathematical, technical, economic, and systemic. It should be noted that the list of distinguished trends in logistics is far from complete and is only exemplary in nature. The presented pluralism of scientific reflection on logistical reality is a reflection of its complexity on the one hand, and the diversity of ways of viewing this reality by researchers on the other.<\/p>
Logistics as a scientific discipline
<\/strong>Logistics as a scientific discipline does not find a place in the current classification systems, although it has been functioning in the educational sphere in Poland for several years. L. Krzyżanowski, in relation to organization and management sciences, cites five criteria by which a scientific discipline can be distinguished, with the subject of research and research methods being considered the main ones. S. Oziemski also states: “Subject plus research methods provide the basis for a field of knowledge”.<\/p>
The article comes from the journal “Logistyka” 5/2008.<\/p>