As an expert in the field of economics, I can provide an insightful analysis on the question of whether unemployment can ever be zero. It's a complex issue that involves a multitude of factors, including economic cycles, labor market dynamics, and policy interventions.

Step 1: Understanding Unemployment
Unemployment is defined as the state of willing workers who are available for and seeking employment, but are currently jobless and unable to find work. There are several types of unemployment, such as frictional, structural, cyclical, and seasonal unemployment. Frictional unemployment occurs when workers are transitioning between jobs. Structural unemployment is due to a mismatch between the skills of the workforce and the requirements of the jobs available. Cyclical unemployment is linked to the business cycle, and seasonal unemployment is related to fluctuations in demand for certain types of work.

The Natural Rate of Unemployment
Economists often refer to the concept of the natural rate of unemployment, which is the rate of unemployment that is consistent with a stable inflation rate. It is the lowest rate that can be expected without causing inflation to accelerate. This rate is influenced by real-world factors such as the efficiency of the job market, the mobility of the workforce, and the adaptability of wages.

Inflation and Wage Pressure
The statement that very low unemployment can hurt the economy by creating an upward pressure on wages is rooted in economic theory. When there are more job openings than there are workers, employers may have to raise wages to attract and retain employees. This can lead to increased production costs, which can then lead to higher prices for goods and services, a phenomenon known as inflation. However, this relationship is not always straightforward and can be influenced by various factors, including productivity growth, global competition, and technological advancements.

Historical Unemployment Rates
Looking at historical data can provide some perspective on this issue. The lowest the unemployment rate has been in the US was 2.5%, as noted in the provided content. However, it's important to recognize that achieving and maintaining such a low rate is a challenge due to the factors mentioned earlier. Additionally, the economic context and the structure of the labor market can vary significantly from one period to another, which can affect the sustainability of low unemployment rates.

Policy Implications
Governments and central banks use various tools to manage unemployment rates. Fiscal policy, which involves government spending and taxation, can influence unemployment by stimulating demand for goods and services. Monetary policy, managed by central banks, can affect unemployment through interest rates and the supply of money. However, these tools are not without their limitations and can have unintended consequences.

The Role of Technology and Globalization
Technological advancements and globalization can also impact unemployment rates. Automation can lead to job displacement, while globalization can lead to offshoring, where jobs move to countries with lower labor costs. These factors can contribute to structural unemployment and require proactive policies to retrain and upskill the workforce.

Conclusion
In conclusion, achieving zero unemployment is theoretically possible but practically challenging due to the dynamic nature of the economy and the labor market. The natural rate of unemployment provides a benchmark for a healthy job market that is not expected to cause inflation. Policymakers must balance the goal of low unemployment with the need to manage inflation and adapt to changes brought about by technology and globalization.

Step 2:
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IT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR UNEMPLOYMENT EVER TO BE ZERO. ... Very low unemployment can actually hurt the economy by creating an upward pressure on wages which invariably leads to higher production costs and prices. This can lead to inflation. The lowest the unemployment rate has been in the US was 2.5%.Jul 13, 2015read more >>