Segment Information (Details) (USD $) In Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010	Dec. 31, 2010
Operating revenues
Less: Transfers between affiliates	$ (31)	$ (39)	$ (98)	$ (111)
Total	8,665	7,864	28,733	24,855
Net income (loss) attributable to Hess Corporation
Net income (loss) attributable to Hess Corporation by operating segment	298	1,154	1,834	2,067
Identifiable assets by operating segment
Total	37,339		37,339		35,396
Segment Information (Textual) [Abstract]
Excise and Similar Taxes	600	565	1,750	1,650
Exploration and Production [Member]
Operating revenues
Segment Revenues Gross	2,217	2,368	7,760	6,761
Net income (loss) attributable to Hess Corporation
Net income (loss) attributable to Hess Corporation by operating segment	422	1,277	2,148	2,316
Identifiable assets by operating segment
Total	31,122		31,122		28,242
Marketing and Refining [Member]
Operating revenues
Segment Revenues Gross	6,479	5,535	21,071	18,205
Net income (loss) attributable to Hess Corporation
Net income (loss) attributable to Hess Corporation by operating segment	(23)	(38)	(23)	30
Identifiable assets by operating segment
Total	5,663		5,663		6,377
Corporate, including interest [Member]
Net income (loss) attributable to Hess Corporation
Net income (loss) attributable to Hess Corporation by operating segment	(101)	(85)	(291)	(279)
Identifiable assets by operating segment
Total	$ 554		$ 554		$ 777