Investments and Derivative Instruments (Details 1) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended				6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012		Jun. 30, 2011		Jun. 30, 2012		Jun. 30, 2011
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Gross gains on sales	$ 246		$ 261		$ 505		$ 322
Gross losses on sales	(159)		(98)		(256)		(231)
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	(98)		(23)		(127)		(78)
Valuation allowances on mortgage loans	0		26		1		23
Japanese fixed annuity contract hedges, net	2	[1]	6	[1]	(18)	[1]	(11)	[1]
Periodic net coupon settlements on credit derivatives/Japan	4		(2)		(1)		(9)
Total results of variable annuity hedge program	644		2		(579)		(345)
Other, net	(50)	[2]	(103)	[2]	154	[2]	(5)	[2]
Net realized capital gains (losses)	589		69		(321)		(334)
U.S. [Member]
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Results of variable annuity hedge program	(109)		(50)		(113)		(78)
U.S. [Member] | GMWB derivatives, net [Member]
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Results of variable annuity hedge program	(115)		(33)		70		23
U.S. [Member] | Macro Hedge Program [Member]
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Results of variable annuity hedge program	6		(17)		(183)		(101)
International [Member]
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Results of variable annuity hedge program	$ 753		$ 52		$ (466)		$ (267)

[1] Relates to the Japanese fixed annuity product (adjustment of product liability for changes in spot currency exchange rates, related derivative hedging instruments, excluding net period coupon settlements, and Japan FVO securities).

[2] Primarily consists of gains and losses on non-qualifying derivatives and fixed maturities, FVO, Japan 3Win related foreign currency swaps, and other investment gains and losses.