REINSURANCE (Detail) - Analysis of unpaid losses and loss expenses and future policy benefit reserves recoverable (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Unpaid losses and loss expenses recoverable	$ 3,654,948	$ 3,671,887
P&C Operations [Member]
Unpaid losses and loss expenses recoverable	3,629,928	3,649,290
Life Operations Segment [Member]
Unpaid losses and loss expenses recoverable	$ 25,020	$ 22,597