Raelians are not unlike many apocalyptic movements
• Superstitious Folly
But some scholars who study new religions and cults say the Raelians' spiritual beliefs are not so easily dismissed or ridiculed. Rather, in certain limited but key respects the beliefs resemble those of other, relatively new U.S. religious movements such as Mormonism and Scientology, as well as those of more contemporary sects. In their apocalyptic worldview, the fusion of religion, science and quasi-sci-fi beliefs, thepreoccupation with sexuality and sexual regulation, and the emphasis on the central role of women in their belief system, the Raelians share tenets with other better-known religions, both mainstream and fringe, these scholars suggest.
Reed Johnson in the Los Angeles Times: Out there, yes, but not alone