Was Secretary of State Dulles' policy of massive retaliation a realistic strategy in the early 50s?

Secretary of State John Foster Dulles' policy of massive retaliation, which emphasized the use of nuclear weapons to deter aggression, was a reflection of the geopolitical tensions of the early 1950s during the Cold War. While it aimed to deter Soviet expansionism by promising overwhelming military response to any attack, its realism was debated. Critics argued that it risked escalatory conflicts and lacked flexibility in addressing conventional threats, while proponents believed it effectively showcased U.S. resolve. Ultimately, the strategy was both a product of its time and a source of ongoing debate regarding deterrence and military strategy.