Annual report pursuant to Section 13 and 15(d)

Investments In Affiliates Accounted For Using The Equity Method (Schedule Of Equity Ownership And Carrying Amount) (Details)

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Investments In Affiliates Accounted For Using The Equity Method (Schedule Of Equity Ownership And Carrying Amount) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2011
Dec. 31, 2010
Nov. 19, 2009
Percentage ownership     57.00%
Investments in affiliates, accounted for using the equity method (note 8) $ 567 $ 91 $ 13,475
SIRIUS XM [Member]
     
Equity Method Investment, Quoted Market Value 4,708    
Segment, Liberty Capital [Member] | Other [Member]
     
Investments in affiliates, accounted for using the equity method (note 8) 126 86  
Segment, Liberty Capital [Member] | SIRIUS XM [Member]
     
Percentage ownership 41.00%    
Investments in affiliates, accounted for using the equity method (note 8) 64 5  
Segment, Liberty Capital [Member] | Live Nation [Member]
     
Percentage ownership 21.00%    
Investments in affiliates, accounted for using the equity method (note 8) 377 0  
Equity Method Investment, Quoted Market Value $ 326