Changes in Presentation (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
Nov. 30, 2011	Nov. 30, 2010
Changes in Presentation [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	$ 2,315	$ (28,275)
Net cash provided by operating activities	301,242	385,676
Net cash used in investing activities	(97,321)	(50,640)
As Reported [Member]
Changes in Presentation [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		0
Net cash provided by operating activities		413,951
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		(28,275)
Net cash used in investing activities		(78,915)
As Changed [Member]
Changes in Presentation [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		(28,275)
Net cash provided by operating activities		385,676
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		0
Net cash used in investing activities		$ (50,640)

The net cash inflow or outflow for the increase (decrease) associated with funds that are not available for withdrawal or use (such as funds held in escrow) and are associated with underlying transactions that are classified as investing activities.

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The net cash from (used in) all of the entity's operating activities, including those of discontinued operations, of the reporting entity. Operating activities generally involve producing and delivering goods and providing services. Operating activity cash flows include transactions, adjustments, and changes in value that are not defined as investing or financing activities. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a debit balance consistent with its label.

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