isn't it unfair that "at will" employee's can be fired without reason but we are expected to give 2 week notice if we want to quit

yes. but you so not have to give 2 weeks notice. that is not a law. that is just what you do to get a good reference.

Yes, and then some of those employers try to keep you from getting unemployment! WTF?

It is not the law that you must give 2 weeks. Many people do not. Nor is it so that employers always hand out terminations without notice. It is common to be told when your last day will be, but be retained for a week and a half or more. Some will settle on a severance in addition to not contesting unemployment payments. If an employer wishes to maintain some level or morale, that employer will be prudent in firing decisions wherever practicable. If the employee wishes to maintain a good reference and work history then they will follow the 2 weeks notice protocol. There are some instances where the employee must be fired immediately. Examples include employee theft, threats, or violence in the workplace.

Well; most all states are "Right To Work" States meaning that the employer CAN fire you for ANY reason that they deem prudent .... However; there is basically NO law that says that an employee must give a two weeks notice before leaving a job ... BUT; in the long run , it does look good on your resume when a future employer sees that you did give a two week notice before leaving the previous job ... Even a ONE weeks notice is better than NO notice at all .

Unless you have a contract that specifies you must give 2 weeks' notice, giving that notice is optional. Professionally, it's a good idea .. but I doubt if anyone could force you to stay 2 weeks if you didn't want to.