William Herkewitz

William Herkewitz

William Herkewitz is a science journalist and humorist based in New York City. He writes about theoretical physics, brewing, SkyMall and everything in between.

ThinkStock

Many plant-based drugs—such as caffeine, cocaine, nicotine and morphine—are all made for the exact same reason: to fight off insects. Why exactly do humans love ingesting insect repellent so much?

William Herkewitz
Getty Images

If you watch the speed skaters during this year’s Winter Olympics, you’ll certainly notice something strange about the footwear they’re sporting. With a hinged blade that moves independently from the boot, modern speed skates look nothing like hockey or f

William Herkewitz
ThinkStock

As any kid with a mason jar can tell you, the honeybee isn't the smartest animal on the planet. But oddly enough, a honeybee colony is actually pretty intelligent. How does the group make decisions when the individuals can't?

William Herkewitz