Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Carrying Amount Reported Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Long Term Debt Net Of Unamortized Discount Long-term Debt, Fair Value Common Stock Split [Abstract] Common Stock Split Stock Split Conversion Ratio Stockholders' Equity Note, Stock Split, Conversion Ratio Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Income from Continuing Operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Incremental Shares from Assumed Conversion of Dilutive Stock Options, Restricted Stock and Shares of Common Stock in Rabbi Trust (in shares) Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Earnings from Continuing Operations Per Share, Basic (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Earnings from Continuing Operations Per Share, Diluted (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Number of antidilutive stock options, shares of restricted stock and shares of common stock in rabbi trust excluded from calculation above (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Income Tax Provision Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Effective Tax Rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Income Tax Examination [Table] Income Tax Examination [Table] Income Tax Examination by Jurisdiction [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] Equatorial Guinea Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Israel ISRAEL China CHINA Income Tax Examination [Line Items] Income Tax Examination [Line Items] Income Tax Examination, Year under Examination Income Tax Examination, Year under Examination Asset Impairments [Abstract] Asset Impairments [Abstract] Asset Impairment Charges [Text Block] Asset Impairment Charges [Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Dividends Paid Per Share of Common Stock Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Divestitures [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Divestitures Property, Plant and Equipment, Schedule of Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Table Text Block] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Unsettled Derivative Instruments Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Fair Value of Derivative Instruments Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments, (Gain) Loss Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Basis of Presentation [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Statement of Operations Information Schedule Of Other Operations Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of detailed components of other Revenues, Production Expense, Net Other Operating Expense, and Net Other Non-Operating Income and Expenses Balance Sheet Information Table Schedule of Other Assets and Other Liabilities [Table Text Block] Basis of Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Organization and Nature of Operations [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Organization and Nature of Operations Nature of Operations [Text Block] Income Tax Provision (Benefit) Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Treasury Stock at Cost Treasury Stock [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Balance at Beginning of Period Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Net Income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Stock-based Compensation Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Exercise of Stock Options Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Tax Benefits Related to Exercise of Stock Options Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Dividends Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Changes in Treasury Stock, Net Stock Redeemed or Called During Period, Value Net Change in Pension and Other Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Balance at End of Period Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Derivative Table [Table] Derivative [Table] Derivative By Risk [Axis] Derivative By Risk [Axis] Information pertinent to an understanding of a derivative or group of derivatives on a disaggregated basis, such as for individual instruments, or small groups of similar instruments, by such instrument or grouping. By contract risk type. Derivative By Risk [Domain] Derivative By Risk [Domain] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Crude Oil Commodity Contract Crude Oil Commodity Contract [Member] Derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to crude oil commodity prices. Natural Gas Commodity Contract Natural Gas Commodity Contract [Member] Derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to natural gas commodity prices. Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Swaps - NYMEX WTI 2014 Swaps - NYMEX WTI 2014 [Member] Attributes of the 2014 NYMEX WTI swap entered into by the company. Swaps - Dated Brent 2014 Swaps - Dated Brent 2014 [Member] Attributes of the 2014 Dated Brent swap entered into by the company. Three Way Collars - NYMEX WTI 2014 Three Way Collars - NYMEX WTI 2014 [Member] Attributes of the 2014 NYMEX WTI three way collar entered into by the company. Three Way Collars - Dated Brent 2014 Three Way Collars - Dated Brent 2014 [Member] Attributes of the 2014 Dated Brent three way collars entered into by the company. Swaps - NYMEX WTI 2015 Swaps - NYMEX WTI 2015 [Member] Attributes of the 2015 NYMEX WTI swap entered into by the company. Swaps - Dated Brent 2015 Swaps - Dated Brent 2015 [Member] Attributes of the 2015 Dated Brent swap entered into by the company. Three Way Collars - NYMEX WTI 2015 Three Way Collars - NYMEX WTI 2015 [Member] Attributes of the 2015 NYMEX WTI three way collar entered into by the company. Three Way Collars - Dated Brent 2015 Three Way Collars - Dated Brent 2015 [Member] Attributes of the 2015 Dated Brent three way collars entered into by the company. Swaps - Dated Brent 2016 Swaps - Dated Brent 2016 [Member] Attributes of the 2016 Dated Brent swap entered into by the company. Three Way Collars - Dated Brent 2016 Three Way Collars - Dated Brent 2016 [Member] Attributes of the 2016 Dated Brent three way collar entered into by the company. Swaps - NYMEX HH 2014 Swaps - NYMEX HH 2014 [Member] Attributes of the 2014 NYMEX HH swap entered into by the company. Three Way Collar - NYMEX HH 2014 Three Way Collar - NYMEX HH 2014 [Member] Attributes of the 2014 NYMEX Henry Hub three way collar entered into by the company. Swaps - NYMEX HH 2015 Swaps - NYMEX HH 2015 [Member] Attributes of the 2014 NYMEX WTI swap entered into by the company. Three Way Collars - NYMEX HH 2015 Three Way Collars - NYMEX HH 2015 [Member] Attributes of the 2015 Henry Hub three way collars entered into by the company. Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Period Derivative Production Period Contract period of time relating to a derivative instrument. Index Derivative, Underlying Basis Volume Per Day Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount Weighted Average Fixed Price Derivative, Swap Type, Average Fixed Price Weighted Average Short Put Price Derivative, Average Price Risk Option Strike Price Weighted Average Floor Price Derivative, Average Floor Price Weighted Average Ceiling Price Derivative, Average Cap Price Discontinued Operations Balance Sheet and Income Statement Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Disposal Groups, Gain on Asset Onshore Divestitures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Disposal Groups, Gain on Asset Sale onshore US [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of disposal groups, which may include the gain (loss) recognized in the income statement and the income statement caption that includes that gain (loss), the classification and carrying value of the assets and liabilities comprising the disposal group, and the segment in which the disposal group was reported. Debt [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Changes in Asset Retirement Obligations Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation [Table Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash Flows From Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization including discontinued operations The aggregate expense recognized in the current period pertaining to continuing and discontinued operations that allocates the cost of tangible assets, intangible assets, or depleting assets to periods that benefit from use of the assets. Asset Impairments Impairment of Oil and Gas Properties Deferred Income Taxes Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes Income from Equity Method Investees, Net of Dividends Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions Loss on Commodity Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax Net Cash Received (Paid) in Settlement of Commodity Derivative Instruments Cash Received (Paid) In Settlement Of Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments The cash received (paid) on derivative instruments not designated or qualifying as hedging instruments as a result of settlement of derivative instruments during the period. (Gain) Loss on Divestitures Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Stock Based Compensation Share-based Compensation Other Adjustments for Noncash Items Included in Income Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] (Increase) Decrease in Accounts Receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Increase in Accounts Payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Increase in Current Income Taxes Payable Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable Decrease in Other Current Liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash Flows From Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Additions to Property, Plant and Equipment Payments to Acquire Oil and Gas Property and Equipment Additions to Equity Method Investments Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Proceeds from Divestitures Proceeds from Sale of Oil and Gas Property and Equipment Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash Flows From Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Exercise of Stock Options Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Excess Tax Benefits from Stock-Based Awards Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Dividends Paid, Common Stock Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Purchase of Treasury Stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Proceeds from Credit Facilities Proceeds from Long-term Lines of Credit Repayment of Capital Lease Obligation Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] ARO Activity [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] United States [Member] UNITED STATES North Sea [Member] North Sea [Member] A third specified group of foreign countries about which segment information is provided by the entity. Non-Core US Properties [Member] Other (Onshore US) [Member] Other (Onshore US) [Member] ARO Activity [Line Items] Asset Retirement Obligations, Beginning Balance Asset Retirement Obligation Liabilities Incurred Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Incurred Liabilities Settled Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Settled Revision of Estimate Asset Retirement Obligation, Revision of Estimate Accretion Expense Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Asset Retirement Obligations, Ending Balance Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Other Commitments [Table] Other Commitments [Table] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Domain] Other Commitments [Domain] CONSOL Carried Cost Obligation [Member] CONSOL Carried Cost Obligation [Member] Carried Cost Obligation related to our Joint Venture onshore US with CONSOL Energy. Marcellus Shale Firm Transportation Agreement [Member] Marcellus Shale Firm Transportation Agreement [Member] Marcellus Shale Firm Transportation Agreement Other Commitments [Line Items] Other Commitments [Line Items] Maximum amount to be paid each calendar year for funding of future drilling and completion costs Maximum amount to be paid each calendar year for funding of future drilling and completion costs The maximum amount of funding to be provided by the entity for future drilling and completion cost each calendar year. Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Funding of joint venture's future drilling and completion costs Funding of joint venture's future drilling and completion costs Amount agreed upon to provide funding of the entity's joint venture future drilling and completion costs. Natural gas price agreed upon benchmark, average Natural gas price agreed upon benchmark, average Average natural gas price agreed upon benchmark for funding of future drilling and completion costs (in MMBtu's). If the average price of gas drops below benchmark for 3 consecutive months, capital carry will to be suspended until the average price of gas rises above the benchmark for a 3 consecutive month period. Forecast On Venture To Explore and Develop Oil and Gas Properties Forecast On Venture To Explore and Develop Oil and Gas Properties Forecast On Venture To Explore and Develop Oil and Gas Properties During the Current Year Long-term Purchase Commitment, Minimum Volume Required Per Day Oil and Gas Delivery Commitments and Contracts, Daily Production Long-term Purchase Commitment, Amount Long-term Purchase Commitment, Amount Long-term Purchase Commitment, Time Period Long Term Purchase Commitment, Time Period, Term Long Term Purchase Commitment, Time Period, Term Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Oil, Gas and NGL Sales Oil and Gas Sales Revenue Income from Equity Method Investees Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Total Revenues Revenues Costs and Expenses Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Production Expense Results of Operations, Production or Lifting Costs Exploration Expense Exploration Expense Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization General and Administrative General and Administrative Expense Other Operating (Income) Expense, Net Other Cost and Expense, Operating Total Operating Expenses Operating Income Operating Income (Loss) Other (Income) Expense Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Loss on Commodity Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net Interest, Net of Amount Capitalized Interest Expense Other Non-Operating Expense, Net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income Tax Provision Income from Continuing Operations Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Income from Continuing Operations (in dollars per share) Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Net Income (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Income from Continuing Operations (in dollars per share) Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Net Income (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding [Abstract] Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted (in shares) Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Details of Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held and Used by Asset [Table Text Block] Details of Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held and Used by Asset [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs [Abstract] Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, Beginning of Period Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs Additions to Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs Pending Determination of Proved Reserves Capitalized Exploratory Well Cost, Additions Pending Determination of Proved Reserves Reclassified to Proved Oil and Gas Properties Based on Determination of Proved Reserves Reclassification to Well, Facilities, and Equipment Based on Determination of Proved Reserves Capitalized Exploratory Well Cost, Charged to Expense Capitalized Exploratory Well Cost, Charged to Expense Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, End of Period Exploratory Well Costs capitalized for a Period of One Year or Less Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs that Have Been Capitalized for Period of One Year or Less Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for a Period Greater Than One Year Since Commencement of Drilling Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs that Have Been Capitalized for Period Greater than One Year Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, End of Period Number of Projects with Exploratory Well Costs That Have Been Capitalized for a Period Greater Than One Year Since Commencement of Drilling Projects that have Exploratory Well Costs that have been Capitalized for Period Greater than One Year, Number of Projects Projects with Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for More than One Year [Table] Projects with Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for More than One Year [Table] Projects with Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for More than One Year by Project [Axis] Project [Axis] Project with Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for More than One Year, Name [Domain] Project [Domain] Diega Offshore Equatorial Guinea Diega Offshore Equatorial Guinea [Member] Diega project offshore Equatorial Guinea with exploratory well costs capitalized for more than one year. Presented by year of suspension and total at balance sheet date. Carla Offshore Equatorial Guinea Carla Offshore Equatorial Guinea [Member] Carla project offshore Equatorial Guinea with exploratory well costs capitalized for more than one year. Presented by year of suspension and total at balance sheet date. Felicita Offshore Equatorial Guinea Felicita Offshore Equatorial Guinea [Member] Felicita project offshore Equatorial Guinea with exploratory well costs capitalized for more than one year. Presented by year of suspension and total at balance sheet date. Yolanda Offshore Equatorial Guinea Yolanda Offshore Equatorial Guinea [Member] Yolanda project offshore Equatorial Guinea with exploratory well costs capitalized for more than one year. Presented by year of suspension and total at balance sheet date. YoYo Offshore Cameron YoYo Offshore Cameron [Member] YoYo West Africa (Offshore Cameroon) projects with exploratory well costs capitalized for more than one year. Presented by year of suspension and total at balance sheet date. Leviathan Offshore Israel Leviathan [Member] Leviathan (Offshore Israel) projects with exploratory well costs capitalized for more than one year. Presented by year of suspension and total at balance sheet date. Leviathan-1 Deep Offshore Israel Leviathan-1 Deep Offshore Israel [Member] Leviathan-1 Deep (Offshore Israel) project with exploratory well costs capitalized for more than one year. Presented by year of suspension and total at balance sheet date. Dalit Offshore Israel Dalit Israel [Member] Dalit (Israel) projects with exploratory well costs capitalized for more than one year. Presented by year of suspension and total at balance sheet date. Dolphin 1 Offshore Israel Dolphin 1 Offshore Israel [Member] Dolphin 1 project offshore Israel with exploratory well costs capitalized for more than one year. Presented by year of suspension and total at balance sheet date. Cyprus A-1 Offshore Cyprus Cyprus A-1 Offshore Cyprus [Member] Cyrpus A-1 (Offshore Cyprus) projects with exploratory well costs capitalized for more than one year. Presented by year of suspension and total at balance sheet date. Scotia Falkland Islands [Member] Scotia Falkland Islands [Member] Scotia (Falkland Islands) project with exploratory well cost capitalized for more than one year. Presented by year of suspension and total at balance sheet date. Other - Projects of $10 million or less each Other Projects [Member] Other previously not disclosed projects with exploratory well costs capitalized for more than one year. Presented by year of suspension and total at balance sheet date. Aging of Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs [Axis] Aging of Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs [Axis] Aging of Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, Period Range [Domain] Aging of Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, Period Range [Domain] 2012 - 2013 Aging of Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, Period One [Member] 2010 - 2011 Aging of Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, Period Two [Member] 2009 & Prior Aging of Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, Period Three [Member] Projects with Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for More than One Year Since The Commencement of Drilling [Line Items] Projects with Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for More than One Year [Line Items] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Net Book Value Net Book Value [Member] This element represents the net book value of financial instruments (as defined), including financial assets and financial liabilities (collectively, as defined). Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Asset Impairment Charges [Abstract] Asset Impairment Charges [Abstract] Impairment of Oil and Gas Properties Discount Rate for Impairment Model Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Production Expense Producton Expense [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Lease Operating Expense Oil and Gas Property, Lease Operating Expense Production and Ad Valorem Taxes Production Tax Expense Transportation and Gathering Expense Results of Operations, Transportation Costs Total Other Operating (Income) Expense, Net Other Operating Expense Net [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- (Gain) Loss on Divestitures Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Oil and Gas Property Other, Net Other Operating Income (Expense), Net Total Other Non-Operating (Income) Expense, Net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Deferred Compensation (Income) Expense Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Compensation Expense Other Expense, Net Other Income Expense Net Component of Other Non-operating (income) expense, Total Accounts Receivable, Net Accounts Receivable, Net [Abstract] Commodity Sales Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Joint Interest Billings Oil and Gas Joint Interest Billing Receivables, Current Other Other Receivables Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Total Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Other Current Assets Other Current Assets [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Inventories, Materials and Supplies Inventory, Supplies, Net of Reserves Inventories, Crude Oil Energy Related Inventory, Crude Oil and Natural Gas Liquids Deferred Income Taxes, Net Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Assets Held-for-Sale Assets Held-for-sale, Current Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total Other Assets, Current Other Noncurrent Assets Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investments Mutual Fund Investments Deferred Compensation Plan Assets Commodity Derivative Assets Derivative Asset, Noncurrent Other Assets Other Assets, Miscellaneous, Noncurrent Total Other Assets, Noncurrent Other Current Liabilities Other Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Production and Ad Valorem Taxes Accrual for Taxes Other than Income Taxes, Current Commodity Derivative Liabilities Derivative Liability, Current Income Taxes Payable Accrued Income Taxes, Current Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligation, Current Interest Payable Interest Payable, Current Current Portion of Long Term Debt Notes and Loans Payable, Current Current Portion of Capital Lease Obligations and Other Capital Lease Obligations, Current Liabilities Associated with Assets Held for Sale Liabilities of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total Other Liabilities, Current Other Noncurrent Liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Deferred Compensation Liabilities Deferred Compensation Liability, Classified, Noncurrent Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligations, Noncurrent Accrued Benefit Costs Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent Other Liabilities, Other than Long-term Debt, Noncurrent Total Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table] Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used by Type [Axis] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used by Type [Axis] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used, Asset Name [Domain] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used, Asset Name [Domain] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Crude Oil [Member] Crude Oil [Member] Natural Gas [Member] Natural Gas [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Current Assets Other Current Assets [Member] Current Liabilities Current Liabilities [Member] Line item in the statement of financial position in which the fair value amounts of the derivative instruments are included Noncurrent Assets Other Assets [Member] Noncurrent Liabilities Other Liabilities [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivative Asset, Fair Value Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability, Fair Value Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net Realized Mark-to-Market (Gain) Loss Gain (Loss) on Sale of Derivatives Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives and Commodity Contracts Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives and Commodity Contracts AOCL amount, net of tax, to be reclassified to interest expense over life of debt Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis [Table] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis [Table] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Disclosure Items [Axis] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Disclosure Items [Axis] This element represents a number of concepts which are required or desirable disclosure items concerning assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments that are classified in stockholders' equity, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Disclosure Items [Domain] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Disclosure Items [Domain] Provides the general information items required or determined to be disclosed with respect to assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments that are classified in stockholders' equity, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) Adjustment Fair Value Inputs Adjustment [Member] Amount represents the impact of master netting agreements that allow us to net cash settle asset and liability positions with the same counterparty Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis [Line Items] Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Financial Assets [Abstract] Financial Assets [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Mutual Fund Investments Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Commodity Derivative Instruments Derivative Asset Financial Liabilities [Abstract] Financial Liabilities [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Commodity Derivative Instruments Fair Value Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Commodity Derivative Financial Instruments Liabilities This element represents a certain statement of financial position liability caption which represents a commodity derivative liability, measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Portion of Deferred Compensation Liability Measured at Fair Value Fair Value Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Deferred Compensation Liability This element represents a certain statement of financial position liability caption which represents a deferred compensation liability, measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Changes in Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Aging of Capitalized Well Costs Schedule of Aging of Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs [Table Text Block] Aging of Exploratory Well Costs Schedule of Projects with Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for More than One Year [Table Text Block] Segment Information Table [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Axis] Segments [Axis] Consolidated [Domain] Segments [Domain] Africa [Member] Africa [Member] Eastern Mediterranean [Member] Eastern Mediterranean [Member] Eastern Mediterranean [Member] Other Int'l & Corporate [Member] Corporate and Other [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenues from Third Parties Income from Equity Method Investees Total Revenues DD&A Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes Total Assets Assets, net of AHFS Sum of carrying amounts as of balance sheet date of all assets (with the exception of assets that are held for sale) that are recognized. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or results. Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Additional fair value disclosures Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net Change in Pension and Other Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax Less Tax Benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Other Comprehensive Income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Preferred stock, par value per share (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, par value per share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury stock, shares (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and Cash Equivalents Accounts Receivable, Net Other Current Assets Total Current Assets Assets, Current Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Oil and Gas Properties (Successful Efforts Method of Accounting) Oil and Gas Property, Successful Effort Method, Gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Other Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Gross Total Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Total Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Goodwill Other Noncurrent Assets Total Assets Assets LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts Payable - Trade Accounts Payable Other Current Liabilities Total Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-Term Debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Deferred Income Taxes, Noncurrent Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Other Noncurrent Liabilities Total Liabilities Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Shareholders’ Equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Preferred Stock - Par Value $1.00 per share; 4 Million Shares Authorized, None Issued Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common Stock - Par Value $0.01 per share; 500 Million Shares Authorized; 401 Million and 400 Million Shares Issued, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional Paid in Capital Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Treasury Stock, at Cost; 38 Million Shares Treasury Stock, Value Retained Earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total Shareholders’ Equity Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity Liabilities and Equity Debt Instrument [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Credit Facility due October 3, 2018 [Member] Line of Credit [Member] Capital Lease and Other Obligations Capital Lease Obligations [Member] 5¼% Senior Notes, due April 15, 2014 (1) Senior Notes, due April 15, 2014 [Member] Notes with the highest claim on the assets of the issuer in case of bankruptcy or liquidation (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer). Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. 8¼% Senior Notes, due March 1, 2019 Senior Notes, due March 1, 2019 [Member] Bond that takes priority over other debt securities sold by the issuer. In the event the issuer goes bankrupt, senior debt holders receive priority for (must receive) repayment prior to (relative to) junior and unsecured (general) creditors. 4.15% Senior Notes, due December 15, 2021 Senior Notes, due December 15, 2021 [Member] Notes with the highest claim on the assets of the issuer in case of bankruptcy or liquidation (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer). Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. 7¼% Senior Notes, due October 15, 2023 Senior Notes [Member] 8% Senior Notes, due April 1, 2027 Senior Notes, due April 1, 2027 [Member] Bond that takes priority over other debt securities sold by the issuer. In the event the issuer goes bankrupt, senior debt holders receive priority for (must receive) repayment prior to (relative to) junior and unsecured (general) creditors. 6% Senior Notes, due March 1, 2041 Senior Notes, due March 1, 2041 [Member] Bond that takes priority over other debt securities sold by the issuer. In the event the issuer goes bankrupt, senior debt holders receive priority for (must receive) repayment prior to (relative to) junior and unsecured (general) creditors. 5¼% Senior Notes, due November 15, 2043 Senior Notes Due November 15, 2043 [Member] Senior Notes Due November 15, 2043 [Member] 7¼% Senior Debentures, due August 1, 2097 Senior Notes, due August 1, 2097 [Member] Bond that takes priority over other debt securities sold by the issuer. In the event the issuer goes bankrupt, senior debt holders receive priority for (must receive) repayment prior to (relative to) junior and unsecured (general) creditors. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Long-term Debt, Gross Interest Rate (percentage in hundredths) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt instrument, maturity date Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Unamortized Discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Total Debt, Net of Discount Long-term Debt Current Portion of Long Term Debt, net of discount FPSO and Other Capital Lease Obligations, Current, net of discount Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term Debt Due After One Year Revolving Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Credit facility fee rate basis points, minimum Credit facility fee rate basis points, minimum Amount of the fee for available but unused credit capacity under the credit facility, minimum Credit facility fee rate basis points, maximum Credit facility fee rate basis points, maximum Amount of the fee for available but unused credit capacity under the credit facility, maximum Credit facility aggregate short-term loans and letters of credit, maximum Credit facility aggregate short-term loans and letters of credit, maximum Maximum incremental aggregate short-term loans and letters of credit capacity under the terms of a credit facility. Credit facility interest rate, Eurodollar rate plus, minimum Credit facility interest rate, Eurodollar rate plus, minimum Adjustment minimum made to the stated Eurodollar rate to determine the effective rate. Credit facility interest rate, Eurodollar rate plus, maximum Credit facility interest rate, Eurodollar rate plus, maximum Adjustment maximum made to the stated Eurodollar rate to determine the effective rate. Segment Information Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs Suspended Well Costs Disclosure [Text Block] Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] North Sea Assets Sold [Member] North Sea Assets [Member] North Sea Assets [Member] US Onshore Assets Sold [Member] US Onshore Assets Sold [Member] US Onshore Assets Sold [Member] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Sales Proceeds Net Book Value of Assets Sold Net Book Value Of Assets Sold Write-off of the carrying amount (book value) associated with assets sold in the period. Goodwill Allocated to Assets Sold Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit Asset Retirement Obligations Associated with Assets Sold Other Closing Adjustments Disposal Group Not Discontinued Operation Other Liabilities For the disposal group, obligations not otherwise itemized. Loss on Divestitures Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation Disclosures [Abstract] Oil and Gas Sales Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Income Before Income Taxes Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Income Tax Expense Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation Operating Income (Loss), Net of Tax Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Gain on Sale, Net of Tax Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax