I agree with Crono aswell. It's just a stupid filter, and if you want to argue like little girls do it over AIM, or some messaging network.
Pixel art shows a understanding of the image you're creating. One has to know how to efficiently shade, gradient, and make decent shapes and outlines, etc, with pixel art... this is all done by software. Sure pixel art can be emulated by software... but it's like technical drawing - sure a photograph would be quicker, but y'know, some people like to do stuff themselfs.
But I have to agree, if you're looking to make graphics as a career... Pixel art: Drop it like it's hot. I would get into graphic software suites, drawing programs, and as mentioned, 3D software
(when combined, you can get some amazing results
)