Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2022	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings	$ (22,058)	$ 90,807	$ 43,253
Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments	(713)	(217)	74
Applicable income taxes	158	50	(19)
Foreign currency translation	(2,136)	(1,011)	1,284
Applicable income taxes	22	(6)	3
Defined benefit pension plans	(253)	1,775	(355)
Applicable income taxes	47	(457)	74
Other, net	250	100	(42)
Other comprehensive income, net	(2,625)	234	1,019
Comprehensive income	(24,683)	91,041	44,272
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	700	1,030	751
Comprehensive income attributable to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders	$ (25,383)	$ 90,011	$ 43,521