The U.S. military takes UFOs seriously. Why doesn't Silicon Valley or academia?

I don't know about that.

While I know there's a debate on whether a "bright line" of consciousness or soul or inner life exists with other forms of life on our planet, I would wager that an advanced race capable of knowing humans, at least, pass this test would make them not view us as animals subject of study.

Perhaps not as this is also dependent on shared morals/ethics, but I like to think its possible if not even likely.

Yes, that's another way of looking at it. Very good point.