Disciplines like algebra are no different from physical training routines for athletes.
Algebra is exercise for the mind.
It is also useful in careers not normally thought of as being science oriented. When I retired I decided to study art very seriously and am taking those courses needed to prepare for an MFA ( Masters of Fine Art). I use algebra often to determine proportions and percentages.
Sadly many of the students in my classes are math cripples not knowing how to read fractions on a ruler, convert fractions to decimals, understand metric measurements, or add a column of two digit numerals without the aid of a calculator. Recently, I was working on a group project with 3 other students and it was necessary to divide 14 by 3. The students were amazed that I could do this instantly using mental arithmetic.