Data science is an interdisciplinary field that uses scientific methods, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from structured and unstructured data. It combines techniques from statistics, computer science, and domain expertise to analyze complex data sets and inform decision-making. Professionals in data science, often referred to as data scientists, utilize tools like Python and R to perform data manipulation and visualization. They play a crucial role in various industries, helping organizations leverage data to improve operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive innovation.