Do you think RAF is a viable alternative to the affiliate way of making money or it's the same thing? To give an example, which is by the way really working for Canadian residents only, check out my last link in signature, the one in Orange then post what you think about it. The "sales" page is actually connected to a refer a friend valid promotion through an opt-in autoresponder so there is no spam or scheme or catch.
It has nothing to do with it in my honest opinion. Yes, you might get a benefit from referring people as well, but while dealing with companies which use a refer-a-friend system you will not get the benefits of being in an affiliate network (detailed reporting, dedicated support, affiliate managers to which ask questions... and a huge team of people dedicated to solving your doubts and paying you on time, every time). My two cents.