Valuation Allowance for Deferred Taxes (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at end of period	$ 261,285	$ 280,755
Valuation allowance for deferred taxes
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at beginning of period	280,755	447,630	465,347
Additions charged to costs and expenses	60,334	28,221	65,431
Additions/(Reductions) charged to other accounts	(67,167)	(121,373)	(71,207)
Reductions charged to costs and expenses	(12,637)	(73,723)	(11,941)
Balance at end of period	$ 261,285	$ 280,755	$ 447,630