I think they are one trick ponies (evaluting risk in insurance, pensions and medical funds) that can't appreciate why 0^0 = 1, and if they do, would rather make money for the time it takes to explain.

But, to not sound like a completely grumpy cynic, I think they are intelligent and efficient; moreover, these days people have multiple jobs or facets and the critism is more towards the idea of an actuary than the individuals who are actuaries. I guess we are all in competition and actuaries and CAs are maybe just more honest about competing for one's income.

I am actually interested in actuarial research, FWIW.