ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Detail) - Schedule of component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Accumulated unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of tax	$ 721,784	$ 238,751	$ (834,546)
OTTI losses recognized in other comprehensive income, net of tax	(199,988)	(228,107)	(353,013)
Accumulated foreign currency translation	77,554	104,254	53,301
Accumulated underfunded pension liability	(17,521)	(14,899)	(8,566)
Accumulated cash flow hedge	1,235	796	357
Total	$ 583,064	$ 100,795	$ (1,142,467)