CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
Fixed maturities, amortized cost	$ 33,738,242	$ 33,668,770
Fixed maturities at amortized cost, fair value	485,422	335,676
Equity securities, cost	778,744	675,758
Mortgage loans, related to securitizations	455,250	627,731
Investment real estate, accumulated depreciation	246	1,066
Accounts and premiums receivable, allowance for uncollectible amounts	3,501	4,283
Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation	118,487	111,579
Preferred Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1
Preferred Stock, shares authorized (in shares)	4,000,000	4,000,000
Preferred Stock, shares Issued (in shares)	0	0
Common Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.50	$ 0.50
Common Stock, shares authorized (in shares)	160,000,000	160,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued (in shares)	88,776,960	88,776,960
Treasury stock, shares (in shares)	9,435,255	10,199,514
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments, income tax	796,960	289,908
Net unrealized (losses) gains relating to other-than-temporary impaired investments for which a portion has been recognized in earnings, income tax	2,208	325
Accumulated loss - derivatives, income tax	(45)	(666)
Postretirement benefits liability adjustment, income tax	$ (35,545)	$ (23,532)