Thread: Does "to affect" mean "to influence" negatively?

I’m wondering if the word "to affect" always means "to influence in a negative way"? I’ve found its three meanings in the Free Dictionary and they all seem to approve my supposition. Is it true?

1. To have an influence on or effect a change in: Inflation affects the buying power of the dollar.
2. To act on the emotions of; touch or move.
3. To attack or infect, as a disease: Rheumatic fever can affect the heart.

Not always, Lena.
For example, you mentioned that "Inflation affects the buying power of the dollar." but deflation could also affect the dollar.
The music affected him deeply. <---- in that sentence the music could have made him cry but maybe it inspired him in a positive way.
Hope that helps!!

Thank you, Joyan.