Which term describes values, beliefs, ideas, and customs passed from one generation to another?

The term that most accurately describes values, beliefs, ideas, and customs passed from one generation to another is culture. Culture encompasses the broader aspects of shared human experiences, including the social norms, traditions, and practices that define a group or society. It is the collective way of life that influences individuals and communities, shaping their identities, behaviors, and interactions with one another.

While heritage specifically refers to the legacy or traditions inherited from previous generations, it is often more focused on cultural resources and historical aspects, such as language, buildings, and traditional practices, rather than the entirety of social behaviors and ideas. Tradition relates to customs and practices that are passed down but does not cover the broader spectrum of shared values and beliefs. Customs are individual practices within a culture, but they do not encompass the complete system of shared values and beliefs that culture does. Hence, culture is the most comprehensive term for the concept described in the question.