Note 14. Employee Stock Option and Retirement Plans (Detail) - Summary Stock Option Activity (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011	Aug. 31, 2010	Aug. 31, 2009
Outstanding at fiscal year end	6,083	6,132	6,451	7,553
Outstanding at fiscal year end (in Dollars per share)	$ 64.76	$ 57.28	$ 47.73	$ 39.51
Exercisable at fiscal year end	2,858	2,643	3,331
Exercisable at fiscal year end (in Dollars per share)	$ 48.44	$ 38.99	$ 34.49