I think you could make the same argument about computer science, especially relating it to the actual practice of professional programming, which resembles pop

I think you could make the same argument about computer science, especially relating it to the actual practice of professional programming, which resembles pop culture more than science. And while both fields have mathematical underpinnings, the foundations of data science -- probability and statistics -- have deeper roots and a longer history. I guess I'm saying you shouldn't impugn the field itself because of its popular practice.