Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2022	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2022	Sep. 30, 2021
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ (2,588)	$ 10,644	$ (40,379)	$ 50,909
Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized appreciation of investments	(527)	(89)	(974)	(164)
Applicable income taxes	113	20	208	38
Foreign currency translation	(1,727)	(643)	(3,794)	(616)
Applicable income taxes	(38)	6	14	(8)
Defined benefit pension plans	29	54	70	158
Applicable income taxes	(7)	(13)	(16)	(42)
Other, net	44	38	199	45
Other comprehensive income, net	(2,113)	(627)	(4,293)	(589)
Comprehensive income	(4,701)	10,017	(44,672)	50,320
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	46	288	518	762
Comprehensive income attributable to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders	$ (4,747)	$ 9,729	$ (45,190)	$ 49,558