CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
Fixed maturities, amortized cost	$ 26,535,113	$ 26,137,960
Equity securities, cost	371,539	345,874
Mortgage loans, related to securitizations	789,624	858,139
Investment real estate, accumulated depreciation	1,321	1,547
Accounts and premiums receivable, allowance for uncollectible amounts	4,096	3,899
Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation	139,943	134,924
Common Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.50	$ 0.50
Common Stock, shares authorized	160,000,000	160,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued	88,776,960	88,776,960
Treasury stock, shares	9,640,102	7,107,765
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments, income tax	966,950	589,132
Net unrealized (losses) gains relating to other-than-temporary impaired investments for which a portion has been recognized in earnings, income tax	(2,658)	(18,428)
Accumulated loss - derivatives, income tax	(1,726)	(4,111)
Postretirement benefits liability adjustment, income tax	$ (38,153)	$ (35,970)