Evolution of logistics definitions and concepts: between functionality, integration and globality

This article explores the evolution of logistics from a narrow functional activity focused on the movement of material flows to a comprehensive interdisciplinary science that addresses the management of diverse flows -material, informational, financial, and human - within and across economic systems. The study highlights the need to update the conceptual and terminological framework of logistics in response to the challenges of digital transformation, sustainable development, and the growing role of human and social dimensions in logistics. The authors propose a revised definition of logistics that reflects its scientific essence, strategic nature, and societal value. A structured model of logistics as a science is developed, including its object of study, hypotheses, laws, principles, and methodological approaches. The paper identifies five stages of the historical development of logistics concepts and categorizes them into traditional, SCM-oriented, and digitally- and sustainability-driven concepts. It is argued that logistics not only integrates knowledge from economics, management, informatics, cybernetics, and social sciences, but is also increasingly capable of contributing its own scientific tools and approaches to these fields. Future research directions are outlined, including the development of logistics for virtual systems, the expansion of humanitarian-oriented practices, and the growing application of logistics in crisis and recovery contexts.