Investments and Derivative Instruments (Details 1) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Gross gains on sales	$ 259	$ 61
Gross losses on sales	(97)	(133)
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	(29)	(55)
Valuation allowances on mortgage loans	1	(3)
Japanese fixed annuity contract hedges, net	(20)	(17)
Periodic net coupon settlements on credit derivatives/Japan	(5)	(7)
Total results of variable annuity hedge program	(1,223)	(347)
Other, net	204	98
Net realized capital gains (losses), before-tax	(910)	(403)
U.S. [Member]
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Results of variable annuity hedge program	(4)	(28)
U.S. [Member] | GMWB derivatives, net [Member]
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Results of variable annuity hedge program	185	56
U.S. [Member] | Macro Hedge Program [Member]
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Results of variable annuity hedge program	(189)	(84)
International [Member]
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Results of variable annuity hedge program	$ (1,219)	$ (319)